Which color tube top is used for blood culture?

The correct tube top for blood culture is yellow. This color tube often contains culture media that support the growth of bacteria and fungi from the blood sample, facilitating the detection of pathogens in the bloodstream. Blood cultures are essential tests used to identify infections that could be life-threatening if not treated properly. The yellow top typically contains additive substances that help to preserve the sample and promote the growth of any microorganisms present, ensuring accurate results.

In clinical practice, using the appropriate tube for blood culture is critical, as using other colors may not provide the necessary environment for microbial growth, leading to false-negative results. For example, red tops usually do not contain any additives and are often used for serum tests, while blue tops are designated for coagulation tests. Green tops typically contain heparin and are used for plasma studies. Selecting the yellow tube ensures that the sample is well-suited for the intended diagnostic purpose.