Which color tube should be used to collect dermal samples?

The correct answer is that the lavender top tube should be used to collect dermal samples because it contains EDTA, an anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting. This is essential when collecting samples for hematology tests or any procedure requiring whole blood or plasma. The lavender top tube is specifically designed for these types of analyses, ensuring the integrity and quality of the sample is maintained.

In the context of dermal samples, which may include blood drawn from capillaries, using a tube that contains an anticoagulant is crucial to avoid clot formation that can compromise test results. The lavender top tube is widely recognized in medical settings for this purpose, making it the appropriate choice for such sample collection. Other tubes, such as those with different colored tops, are generally designated for various tests, including those requiring serum, but are not suited for the same type of testing.