Description
Vacutainer® ESR Tube, Glass
The Vacutainer® ESR Tube, Glass is a sterile, evacuated blood collection tube designed for reliable erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) testing using the Westergren method. As a plasma tube, it is formulated to produce anticoagulated whole blood that can be used for ESR measurement while maintaining appropriate sample integrity during collection, transport, and processing. The glass construction supports consistent vacuum performance and chemical compatibility with commonly used citrate anticoagulants.
Intended Use
This tube is intended for in vitro diagnostic blood collection for ESR determination. It provides a controlled blood-to-anticoagulant ratio to support standardized sedimentation measurements. The tube is for professional use in clinical laboratories, physician offices, and other healthcare settings following established phlebotomy and ESR testing procedures.
Additive and Sample Type
Vacutainer® ESR glass tubes contain a citrate-based anticoagulant, commonly buffered sodium citrate, to prevent clotting and support plasma-based testing workflows. After collection and gentle mixing, the sample remains anticoagulated for ESR evaluation and may be suitable for additional plasma-related handling as dictated by laboratory policy and test requirements.
Key Features
- Evacuated glass tube designed for consistent fill volume and controlled blood-to-additive ratio
- Citrate anticoagulant formulation commonly used for Westergren ESR methodologies
- Supports standardized ESR workflows by helping reduce variability related to underfilling or improper ratios
- Clear labeling area to aid sample identification and traceability
- Designed for use with Vacutainer® blood collection systems and standard venipuncture technique
How It Works in the ESR Workflow
Following venipuncture, the tube fills to its stated draw volume via pre-set vacuum. The collected blood must be mixed immediately by gentle inversion to ensure complete anticoagulant distribution. Proper mixing and correct fill are critical to minimizing microclot formation and ensuring consistent sedimentation behavior. The anticoagulated sample is then processed according to the laboratory’s Westergren ESR procedure and instrument or manual method requirements.
Handling and Storage Considerations
- Use only within the stated expiration date and store according to manufacturer instructions
- Do not use tubes with cracks, compromised closures, loss of vacuum, or visible contamination
- Ensure the tube is filled to the intended volume to maintain the correct blood-to-citrate ratio
- Mix by gentle inversion immediately after collection and prior to testing
- Follow facility policies for transport conditions and time-to-testing for ESR samples
Typical Specifications
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Tube material | Glass, evacuated |
| Additive | Citrate anticoagulant (commonly buffered sodium citrate) |
| Primary application | Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (Westergren ESR) |
| Sample type | Anticoagulated whole blood for ESR; plasma-compatible handling as required |
| Use environment | Clinical and laboratory blood collection by trained personnel |
For best performance, select the tube size and draw volume specified by your ESR method or analyzer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use along with applicable regulatory and safety guidelines.
