You are working at a PHC and you want to send a blood sample for glucose estimation. Which of the following anticoagulant will he have to use for accurate results?
**Core Concept**
The choice of anticoagulant is crucial in blood sample collection for glucose estimation, as it affects the accuracy of the results. **Glucose is a labile molecule** that can be affected by the anticoagulant used, and some anticoagulants can alter its levels or interfere with the glucose estimation methods.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Sodium fluoride (NaF) is the correct answer because it is a specific anticoagulant that inhibits glycolysis, preventing glucose consumption by red blood cells. This is essential for accurate glucose estimation, as glycolysis can lead to falsely low glucose levels. Sodium fluoride acts by **inhibiting the enzyme enolase**, which is a key enzyme in the glycolytic pathway. This ensures that the glucose levels in the blood sample remain stable, providing accurate results.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is a commonly used anticoagulant for blood samples, but it does not inhibit glycolysis and can lead to falsely low glucose levels.
* **Option B:** Heparin is another anticoagulant that can affect glucose estimation, as it can also inhibit glycolysis, but it is not the preferred choice for glucose estimation.
* **Option D:** Oxalate is not typically used as an anticoagulant for glucose estimation, and it can interfere with some glucose estimation methods.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When collecting blood samples for glucose estimation, always use **sodium fluoride (NaF) as the anticoagulant** to prevent glycolysis and ensure accurate results.
**Correct Answer:** C. Sodium fluoride.