How Do Microhematocrit Tubes Fill with Blood

Heparinized blood is transferred from the microcentrifuge tube (often called eppendorf tube) to a microhematocrit capillary. The tube is filled to at about 3/4 capacity by capillary action. Then the blood-filled end is sealed with clay, and placed in a slot in the hematocrit centrifuge.

How does a Microhematocrit tube work?

Thin capillary tubes of various material compositions used for collecting blood samples via capillary action and measuring the volume percentage of red blood cells in those samples; tubes may be heparinized to prevent blood clotting.

How is blood obtained to perform a Microhematocrit?

For the microhematocrit method, the blood requirement is less, and single finger-prick blood is sufficient. Heparin filled capillary tube may is used to collect blood. However, if there is available blood with anticoagulant for other hematologic tests, a capillary tube without heparin can be used.