When do you centrifuge a specimen?

Centrifugation is performed on a specimen when it is necessary to separate its components based on density, typically after it has been collected in a tube. This process is commonly used for blood samples to separate plasma or serum from cellular components, allowing for further analysis. Centrifugation is also employed in various laboratory procedures to concentrate cells, isolate proteins, or clarify solutions. It should be done promptly to preserve the integrity of the specimen and ensure accurate results.