Primary Uses:
- Preventing Coagulation: It is used to thoroughly mix blood with anticoagulants (like EDTA, Heparin, or Citrate) in collection tubes to prevent clotting.
- Uniform Cell Distribution: Before performing tests like a Complete Blood Count (CBC) or counting RBCs, WBCs, and platelets, the mixer ensures cells are evenly distributed for accurate analysis.
- Sample Integrity: Its gentle motion prevents hemolysis (the destruction of red blood cells), which can occur if samples are mixed too aggressively.
- General Lab Mixing: It is also used for preparing cell cultures, mixing reagents, and creating liquid-solid suspensions that require minimal aeration.
