How long should a blood sample in a gold tube sit before centrifugation?

The correct answer indicates that a blood sample in a gold tube should sit for 30 minutes before centrifugation. This is important because the gold tube, typically used for serum collection, contains a gel separator and is designed to allow the blood to clot before it is centrifuged.

Allowing the sample to sit for the appropriate time facilitates the clotting process, ensuring that the serum can successfully separate from the cells during centrifugation. If the sample is centrifuged too soon, the clot may not form properly, leading to inaccurate results or potential contamination of the serum.

This recommended sitting time is a standard practice in phlebotomy to achieve reliable laboratory results. Collecting blood and properly preparing it for analysis is crucial in diagnostic testing, and following the correct procedures, such as allowing sufficient clotting time, is essential for maintaining the integrity of the sample.