Vacuum blood collection tubes are designed to draw a specific volume of blood into the tube by utilizing a vacuum seal. The rubber stopper for Blood Collection Tube used in these tubes are specially designed to maintain the vacuum until the tube is opened for processing. These stoppers often have a unique structure that allows for a tight seal while still being easy to puncture with a needle when the sample is ready to be transferred to another container.
Serological tubes are used for the collection of serum samples, and the stoppers used in these tubes are designed to allow for easy separation of the serum from the blood cells. These stoppers are often made from a firmer material that can withstand the pressure changes that occur as the blood clots and the serum separates.
Properties and Considerations
When selecting the appropriate type of rubber stopper for blood collection tubes, several factors must be considered:
- Compatibility: The stopper must be compatible with the additives used in the tube to prevent any chemical reactions that could affect the sample.
- Seal Integrity: The stopper must create a secure seal to prevent leakage and contamination of the sample.
- Safety: The stopper should be non-toxic and non-pyrogenic to ensure the safety of both the sample and the individuals handling the tubes.
- Ease of Use: The stopper should be easy to insert and remove, and in the case of vacuum tubes, easy to puncture when needed.
Rubber stoppers in blood collection tubes are used in a variety of medical applications, including:
- Routine blood tests for monitoring health and diagnosing conditions.
- Blood banking for the collection and storage of blood for transfusions.
- Research studies that require the collection and analysis of blood samples.
- Emergency medical situations where rapid blood sampling is necessary.