Centrifuge: Quick Guide for Student Veterinary Nurses ✨

Using a centrifuge correctly is essential for getting accurate lab results. Here's a quick, step-by-step guide to keep things safe + efficient whilst you're still getting your head around being in practice!

✨ What does a centrifuge do?

A centrifuge spins samples at high speed to separate components:

• Blood → plasma/serum + cells
• Urine → sediment + supernatant

✨ Step-by-Step

1. Preparation 

• Place on a flat, stable surface
• Wear gloves 
• Label Samples (name, species, date)
• Check lid + safety lock

2. Fill tubes

• Use enough sample
• Secure lids tightly

3. Balance

• Place tubes opposite each other
• Ensure equal volumes
• Use a balance tube if needed

4. Set the speed

• Follow guidelines
• General rule - blood 10,000rpm for 5 mins, urine 1,500-2,000rpm for 3 mins

5. Start

• Close lid fully
• Let the full cycle complete
• Never open whilst machine is spinning

6. Remove samples

• Wait until fully stopped
• Remove carefully

7. Review samples

• Blood → separated layers
• Urine → sediment at bottom

8. Clean down

• Dispose of waste correctly
• Clean + disinfect centrifuge

9. Maintenance

• Regular servicing as per manufacturer guidelines 

✨ Quick takeaway

• Always balance properly
• Never open mid-spin
• Check samples after separation 

 

I really hope this helps! For a quick-reference version of how to use a centrifuge, you can purchase my digital download 'Centrifuge' poster here: 

https://thatvetnurselife.co.uk/products/digital-product-12?_pos=1&_psq=centrif&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Thank you for reading! Jade x