Blood Collection Tubes: The Importance of Gel Separator

What is the function of the gel separator in an evacuated blood collection tube?

a) RBCS from WBCS
b) buffy coat from plasma
c) RBCS and WBCS from buffy coat
d) plasma from serum
e) RBCS and WBCS from plasma and serum
Final answer: The gel separator in an evacuated blood collection tube separates the buffy coat from the plasma to obtain clean separation.

Answer:

The function of the gel separator in an evacuated blood collection tube is to separate the buffy coat from the plasma.

When blood is centrifuged, it separates into its major components based on density. The buffy coat is a pale, thin layer composed of leukocytes (white blood cells) and platelets, and it separates the erythrocytes (red blood cells) from the plasma. The gel separator acts as a physical barrier that prevents the mixing of the buffy coat with the plasma, allowing for a clean separation.

For example, if a blood sample is required for a test that specifically requires plasma, the use of an evacuated blood collection tube with a gel separator ensures that only the plasma is obtained without any contamination from the buffy coat.

Overall, the gel separator plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable blood sample collection and analysis.