ANTICOAGULANTS

MLS 1A
University of San Agustin
 LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Describe the role and applications of anticoagulants in
laboratory testing.

2. Identify particular anticoagulants used for specific laboratory

test procedures.

3. Discuss potential problems that may result from misuse of

anticoagulants during testing.
 ANTICOAGULANTS
• Prevents coagulation or clotting of blood

• Correct choice and amount of anticoagulant should be used for

testing
 CONSIDERATIONS
• Insufficient amount of
anticoagulant

• Excess amount of
anticoagulant

• Incorrect anticoagulant used

for testing
 OXALATES
• Combines with calcium
• Forms insoluble calcium oxalate salt

• Commonly used in hematology

 CITRATE
• Binds with non-ionized calcium

• Commonly used in hematology

• ESR, Coagulation tests

• Anticoagulant for blood donation

 EDTA
• Removes calcium by chelation

• Inhibits LPS activity

• Commonly used for CBC and

chemistry tests
 FLUORIDE
• Combines with calcium

• Prevents glycolysis
 HEPARIN
• Natural anticoagulant

• Anti-thrombin and anti-

thromboplastin

• Used for blood gas analysis

 HANDLING SERUM
• Separate serum from clot
ASAP
• Glycolysis and lipolysis
• Increase in protein
concentration
• Blood gas exchange
• Shift in electrolytes
• Hemolysis
ORDER OF
DRAW
 REFERENCES
1. Hoeltke, L.B. (2018). Cengage Learning.

2. Garza, D., Becan-McBride, K. 8th Ed. (2010). Pearson

Education Inc.

3. Fabian – Cruzada, S. L. (2001). Manila, Philippines.