What is the purpose of serum tubes in blood collection?

The purpose of serum tubes in blood collection is to allow clotting so that serum can be separated for testing. When blood is drawn into a serum tube, it typically contains a clot activator that promotes the coagulation process. After sufficient time for clotting, which usually takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, the sample is then centrifuged. During centrifugation, the blood cells form a solid base, and the liquid portion, which is now serum, can be easily separated. This serum can then be used for various laboratory tests, allowing accurate measurement of biochemical substances in the blood without interference from cellular components.

This function is crucial in many diagnostic tests, as serum assays provide valuable information about metabolic processes and the presence of diseases. Understanding the role of serum tubes helps in ensuring proper laboratory practices and accurate results in blood testing.