What laboratory test is performed on blood collection in lead-free tubes?

What laboratory test is performed on blood collection in lead-free tubes?

• A. Cholesterol
• B. Glucose
• C. Hematology
• D. Lead

Answer: (D)

Lead testing in blood must start with a contamination-free specimen. Lead-free tubes are used because any trace lead in the tube or stopper could contaminate the blood sample and falsely raise the measured lead level. Using a lead-free tube ensures the result accurately reflects the patient’s blood lead concentration rather than a contribution from the collection container. Other common tests like cholesterol, glucose, or hematology are performed in standard tubes with typical additives, and do not require these lead-free materials, so the need for lead-free tubes is specific to measuring lead in blood.

Lead testing in blood must start with a contamination-free specimen. Lead-free tubes are used because any trace lead in the tube or stopper could contaminate the blood sample and falsely raise the measured lead level. Using a lead-free tube ensures the result accurately reflects the patient’s blood lead concentration rather than a contribution from the collection container. Other common tests like cholesterol, glucose, or hematology are performed in standard tubes with typical additives, and do not require these lead-free materials, so the need for lead-free tubes is specific to measuring lead in blood.