Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code Review

Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code

For over a decade, I’ve specialized in tactical and outdoor gear, handling everything from high-tech optics to the most basic survival tools. You might be asking, “Why is this grizzled outdoor expert reviewing Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code?” The answer is simple: wilderness medicine. These aren’t your average lab supplies; in the right hands, in a dire situation, they could be life-savers.

What initially drew me to these tubes was the need for a reliable method of collecting small blood samples in field conditions, specifically for diagnostic purposes using portable testing devices. I needed something durable, consistently treated with heparin to prevent clotting, and easily identifiable in a low-light environment. The Kimble Chase brand stood out for their reputation in laboratory settings, suggesting a certain level of quality control.

The tubes arrived neatly packed in a lint-free box, ensuring their cleanliness. Upon opening, the uniform red color code immediately caught my eye, making them easily identifiable among other medical supplies. The glass felt sturdy yet delicate, requiring careful handling but inspiring confidence in its ability to contain a sample without shattering easily.

I’ve used similar products from Globe Scientific and Fisher Scientific in the past, but the consistent heparin coating claimed by Kimble/Kontes, along with their tapered tip design, swayed my decision. Other brands have sometimes demonstrated inconsistent heparinization, leading to clotting issues. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was excited to test their real-world performance, but also wary of potential fragility.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested these tubes during a simulated wilderness medical scenario as part of a survival skills training exercise in the Appalachian Mountains. This involved collecting blood samples from “injured” participants for rapid blood glucose and lactate level testing. The Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes were used to draw blood from fingertip punctures under less-than-ideal field conditions.

The damp, cool environment of the mountain forest presented a challenge, but the tapered tips of the tubes allowed for easy and relatively painless collection. The red color code proved invaluable in quickly identifying the heparinized tubes in my dimly lit aid station. There were no issues with clotting observed during the initial testing, a testament to the even heparin coating.

I found that the tubes, while inherently fragile due to their glass construction, held up well when handled with care. One issue I did encounter was that the 150mm length made them slightly cumbersome to manage with gloves on. Still, no tubes broke during the initial use, a pleasant surprise given the challenging conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use in various first-aid training exercises, the Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes have proven to be a reliable option for micro-blood collection. I stored them in a rigid, crush-proof container within my med kit, which is crucial for preventing breakage during transport. Minimal wear and tear was observed on the tubes themselves, aside from the occasional scratch on the glass.

Cleaning the tubes is not an option for reuse, as they are designed for single use only; however, proper disposal into a sharps container is essential for safety. Compared to my previous experiences with lower-quality tubes, the Kimble/Kontes offering has consistently delivered reliable performance, with minimal clotting and easy collection. The consistent heparinization outperforms other tubes I’ve used, significantly reducing the risk of inaccurate test results due to clotting.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code

Specifications

• Description: Heparinized, Red Color Code. This indicates that the tubes are pre-treated with heparin to prevent blood coagulation and are easily identifiable by their red marking, which is crucial in emergency settings.

• Chase No.: 42E603. This number is useful for reordering and identifying the specific product within the Kimble Chase catalog, ensuring consistent quality and specifications.

• Volume: 250µL. This is the maximum blood volume the tube can hold, sufficient for most point-of-care diagnostic tests.

• Length: 150mm (5 7/8″). The length provides sufficient space for blood collection while remaining manageable for storage and handling.

• O.D.: 2.1mm (1/8″). The outer diameter is small enough to facilitate easy insertion into puncture sites.

• I.D.: 1.5mm (1/16″). The inner diameter allows for capillary action to draw blood into the tube efficiently.

• Material: Soda lime glass. This glass is cost-effective while providing adequate chemical resistance for blood collection. The fact that the tubes are manufactured with tapered tips makes micro blood sample collection that much easier.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the usability and reliability of the tubes in the field. The heparin coating is critical for accurate blood analysis, the tapered tips ensure efficient collection, and the red color coding allows for rapid identification in stressful environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes perform their primary function – collecting and preserving micro-blood samples – exceptionally well. Their reliability stems from the consistent heparin coating, which effectively prevents clotting for a reasonable duration, ensuring accurate diagnostic results. The tubes are easy to use, even for individuals with limited medical training, thanks to their tapered design and clear markings.

However, the inherent fragility of glass remains a weakness; they must be handled and stored carefully to avoid breakage. The tubes definitely meet expectations for field blood collection, providing a dependable option for rapid diagnostics in remote or emergency situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is generally good for disposable glass tubes, with a consistent diameter and smooth finish. The glass feels sturdy enough for its intended purpose, though care must be taken to avoid impact. The tapered tips contribute to ease of use, allowing for efficient blood collection with minimal discomfort.

However, there is a slight learning curve associated with handling glass capillary tubes in general; users must be trained in proper collection and sealing techniques. The lint-free packaging is a thoughtful touch, ensuring the tubes remain clean and ready for use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given their disposable nature, long-term durability is not a primary concern. However, the tubes are susceptible to breakage if not handled carefully. Maintenance is non-existent, as the tubes are intended for single use only, emphasizing the importance of proper disposal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product does not come with any additional accessories beyond the lint-free packaging. There are no customization options available or necessary for this type of product. The tubes are compatible with standard capillary tube sealing compounds and microcentrifuges used for blood analysis.

Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code

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Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code?

These tubes are perfect for medics, wilderness first responders, and medical professionals who require a reliable means of collecting micro-blood samples in field conditions. They are also well-suited for researchers conducting point-of-care testing in remote locations. Anyone needing to perform rapid diagnostic tests outside of a traditional laboratory setting would benefit from using the Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes.

Individuals who should skip this product include those who prefer reusable blood collection methods or those who lack the necessary training in proper blood collection and handling techniques. A must-have accessory is a rigid, crush-proof carrying case to protect the tubes during transport. Having a quality sharps container on-hand is also essential for safe disposal.

Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code

The Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes, Kimble Chase 603 Heparinized, Red Color Code offer a reliable and efficient solution for micro-blood collection in challenging environments. While the $273.99 price tag might seem steep for disposable glass tubes, the consistent heparinization and tapered tip design justify the cost for those who require accurate and efficient blood sampling in the field. These features directly translate to more reliable diagnostic results, which can be critical in emergency situations.

I would personally recommend these tubes to any medic, first responder, or researcher who prioritizes reliability and ease of use in their blood collection procedures. Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to medical supplies; invest in the Kimble/Kontes Natelson Capillary Tubes and ensure you’re equipped for any situation. Equip yourself with the right tools, and you might just save a life.