When it comes to medical testing and diagnostics, serum blood collection tubes play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable results. These tubes are specifically designed to separate serum from blood samples, making them indispensable in laboratories and healthcare facilities. ในบล็อกโพสต์นี้, we’ll explore what serum blood collection tubes are, how they work, their applications, and best practices for using them effectively.
What Is a Serum Blood Collection Tube?
A serum blood collection tube is a specialized container used to collect and process blood samples for laboratory testing. These tubes are usually made of glass or plastic and contain specific additives, such as clot activators, to facilitate the separation of serum from the blood. Serum is the clear, yellowish fluid that remains after blood has coagulated and the clot has been removed.
How Does a Serum Blood Collection Tube Work?
Serum tubes are designed to promote clotting of the blood sample. After blood is drawn into the tube, the clot activator accelerates the coagulation process. Once the blood has clotted, the tube is typically centrifuged to separate the serum from the blood cells and clot. The resulting serum is then used for various diagnostic tests.
Common Additives in Serum Tubes
Serum collection tubes often contain additives like:
– Clot Activators: These speed up the clotting process.
– Gel Separators: A gel barrier forms during centrifugation, separating the serum from the blood cells.
These additives ensure that the serum is free from contaminants and ready for testing.
Applications of Serum Blood Collection Tubes
Serum blood collection tubes are used in a wide range of medical and diagnostic applications, รวมทั้ง:
1. Blood Chemistry Tests: Measuring glucose, cholesterol, and liver enzymes.
2. Immunology: Detecting antibodies or antigens.
3. Endocrinology: Hormone level testing, such as thyroid function tests.
4. Toxicology: Measuring drug levels or detecting toxins.
How to Use Serum Blood Collection Tubes
Proper technique ensures the integrity of the sample:
- ของสะสม: Draw blood using a sterile needle and allow it to flow into the tube.
- Inversion: Gently invert tubes with clot activators to mix; do not shake vigorously.
- Clotting Time: Let the sample stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour for complete clotting.
- Centrifugation: Spin the tube to separate serum from the clot. SST tubes will show a visible barrier.
- Serum Extraction: Carefully extract the serum for analysis, avoiding contamination with cells.
