Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

In what scenario is lithium heparin most commonly used?

1. Hematology studies

2. Biochemical analyses

3. Blood gas analysis

4. Allergic reactions

The correct answer is: Blood gas analysis

Lithium heparin is most commonly used in blood gas analysis because it is an anticoagulant that prevents the activation of clotting factors without significantly affecting the measurements of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. In this specific type of analysis, maintaining the integrity of the sample is crucial, and lithium heparin is preferred as it provides reliable results for the partial pressures of gases, pH, and bicarbonate concentrations. While hematology studies or biochemical analyses may utilize other types of anticoagulants like EDTA or sodium citrate to preserve cellular elements or biochemical constituents, lithium heparin's role is particularly specialized for blood gas evaluations. Allergic reactions are not related to the use of lithium heparin, as they typically involve immune responses rather than sampling techniques.