What is the function of a serum separator tube?

The function of a serum separator tube is primarily to separate serum from clotted blood. When blood is drawn into a serum separator tube, it contains a gel that facilitates the separation process once the blood is centrifuged. During centrifugation, the heavier components of the blood, including red blood cells, settle at the bottom of the tube, while the lighter serum remains on top of the gel barrier. This separation is crucial as it allows for the collection and analysis of serum for various laboratory tests without interference from the cellular components of the blood.

In contrast to the other options, the serum separator tube specifically focuses on the separation of serum, not just plasma or whole blood, nor is it directly concerned with the collection of blood for donation or ensuring the accuracy of complete blood count results. This specificity in function makes serum separator tubes essential for a wide range of diagnostic tests that rely on serum for accurate measurements.