Choosing Between Plain and Gel Separator Tubes: Budget, Accuracy, and Versatility in Blood Collection

Written By Natalie Brooks, BS, CPT

Summary

  • Gel separator tubes provide more accurate Test Results by preventing cell contamination.
  • Plain tubes are more cost-effective, but may result in inaccurate Test Results.
  • Hospitals must consider their budget constraints and the importance of test accuracy when choosing between plain and gel separator tubes.

When it comes to managing hospital supplies and equipment, one of the crucial decisions that healthcare facilities must make is choosing the right blood collection tubes for laboratory testing. In the United States, hospitals have the option of using either plain tubes or gel separator tubes for blood collection. Each type of tube has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and hospitals must carefully consider their options to ensure accurate Test Results while also staying within budget constraints.

Plain Tubes

Plain tubes, also known as serum tubes, are the most commonly used type of blood collection tubes in hospitals. These tubes do not contain any additives or separators and are typically used for collecting blood samples for basic laboratory tests such as Blood Glucose levels and cholesterol levels. Plain tubes are cost-effective and readily available, making them a popular choice for hospitals looking to save on supply costs. However, there are some drawbacks to using plain tubes for blood collection:

  1. Plain tubes have a higher risk of cell contamination. When blood is collected in a plain tube, the red blood cells and serum are not properly separated, which can lead to inaccurate Test Results. This can be particularly problematic for tests that require high levels of accuracy, such as blood chemistry tests.
  2. Plain tubes are not suitable for tests that require plasma instead of serum. Some laboratory tests, such as coagulation studies, require plasma rather than serum for accurate results. Using plain tubes for these tests can lead to inaccurate results and the need for sample recollection, which can be time-consuming and costly for hospitals.
  3. Plain tubes may not be suitable for tests that require special additives. Some laboratory tests require special additives, such as anticoagulants or preservatives, to ensure accurate results. Plain tubes do not contain these additives, making them unsuitable for certain types of tests.

Gel Separator Tubes

Gel separator tubes, also known as serum separator tubes, are a type of blood collection tube that contains a gel barrier between the blood cells and serum. When blood is collected in a gel separator tube, the tube is centrifuged, causing the heavier blood cells to sink to the bottom of the tube and the lighter serum to float on top of the gel barrier. This separation prevents cell contamination and ensures more accurate Test Results. While gel separator tubes may be more expensive than plain tubes, they offer several advantages:

  1. Gel separator tubes provide more accurate Test Results. By preventing cell contamination, gel separator tubes help ensure that the serum sample analyzed in the laboratory is free of red blood cells and other contaminants. This leads to more reliable and accurate Test Results, particularly for tests that require high levels of precision.
  2. Gel separator tubes are suitable for a wide range of laboratory tests. Unlike plain tubes, gel separator tubes can be used for tests that require both serum and plasma samples. The gel barrier in these tubes allows for easy separation of serum and plasma, making them versatile and suitable for a variety of laboratory tests.
  3. Gel separator tubes are convenient and easy to use. The gel barrier in these tubes eliminates the need for additional steps, such as transferring blood samples to separate tubes or manually separating serum from blood cells. This simplifies the blood collection process and reduces the risk of sample contamination or errors.

Choosing Between Plain and Gel Separator Tubes

When it comes to choosing between plain and gel separator tubes for blood collection, hospitals must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each type of tube to make an informed decision. Factors to consider include budget constraints, the types of tests commonly performed in the laboratory, and the importance of test accuracy. Some practical implications for hospitals in the United States to consider when choosing between plain and gel separator tubes include:

Budget Constraints

One of the primary considerations for hospitals when choosing blood collection tubes is budget constraints. Plain tubes are generally more cost-effective than gel separator tubes, making them a more attractive option for hospitals looking to save on supply costs. However, hospitals must also consider the potential cost of inaccurate Test Results that may arise from using plain tubes. If the hospital frequently performs tests that require high levels of accuracy, investing in gel separator tubes may be a more cost-effective long-term solution.

Test Accuracy

Another important factor for hospitals to consider is the importance of test accuracy. While plain tubes may be suitable for basic laboratory tests that do not require high levels of precision, they are not ideal for tests that require accurate separation of serum and plasma samples. Hospitals that prioritize test accuracy and reliability may find that investing in gel separator tubes is worth the additional cost, as they can help prevent errors and ensure more reliable Test Results.

Sample Versatility

Hospitals should also consider the types of laboratory tests commonly performed in their facility when choosing between plain and gel separator tubes. Gel separator tubes offer greater versatility and can be used for a wide range of tests that require serum or plasma samples. Hospitals that perform a variety of laboratory tests may find that investing in gel separator tubes allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in sample collection and processing.

Conclusion

Choosing between plain and gel separator tubes for blood collection is a decision that hospitals in the United States must carefully consider. While plain tubes may offer cost savings, they also come with a higher risk of cell contamination and inaccurate Test Results. Gel separator tubes, on the other hand, provide more accurate Test Results and greater versatility but may be more expensive. Ultimately, hospitals must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each type of tube to determine the best option for their facility based on budget constraints, test accuracy requirements, and sample versatility.

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Natalie Brooks, BS, CPT

Natalie Brooks is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Florida. With 8 years of experience working in both clinical and research settings, Natalie has become highly skilled in blood collection techniques, particularly in high-volume environments. She is committed to ensuring that blood draws are conducted with the utmost care and precision, contributing to better patient outcomes.

Natalie frequently writes about the latest advancements in phlebotomy tools, strategies for improving blood collection efficiency, and tips for phlebotomists on dealing with difficult draws. Passionate about sharing her expertise, she also mentors new phlebotomists, helping them navigate the challenges of the field and promoting best practices for patient comfort and safety.

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