February 19, 2024
February 19, 2024
In the dynamic world of life science services, Interpath Services (IPS) shines as a purpose-driven business with a standout Sales Team. What sets IPS apart? It's the wealth of knowledge within their team. Let's kick off our interview series by getting to know Lorenna Salge, Clinical Applications Specialist, who joined over ten years ago.
Crafting Expertise: A Journey into Clinical Pathology
Lorenna Salge, a medical scientist with a knack for Clinical Pathology, brings a rich background to IPS. With eight years in various lab departments pre-IPS, she's now a go-to person for leading suppliers Vacuette and Copan. Lorenna not only knows the products but can make them sing, helping customers optimize their lab operations.
A Role Beyond Transactions: Shaping Pathology Support
Lorenna's role, born last year, isn't just about sales; it's about being there for the entire customer journey. From decision-making to post-sales and troubleshooting, she's like the GPS of pathology support. Her Microbiology and blood collection background fits like a glove, ensuring personalized guidance for customers.
Passion for Project Management: Seamless Integration Matters
What lights Lorenna up? Managing projects with customers. From picking the right products to smooth integration, she believes in giving comprehensive support for seamless workflows. It's not just about selling; it's about making sure the product becomes an essential part of the customer's lab life.
A Decade of Growth: Close Customer Relationships Endure
Lorenna, in her 11 years with IPS, highlights the close relationships with customers as fundamental. Even after joining the Bunzl family, the commitment to top-notch service and tight customer bonds remains unshaken, showcasing the true spirit of IPS.
Navigating Challenges: Retaining Customers Amidst Competition
COVID-19 and increased competition pose challenges, but Lorenna stresses the power of exceptional customer service and clinical know-how. This winning combo, she believes, is the secret sauce for IPS's continued success.
Priorities for 2024: Nationwide Understanding for Nationwide Success
In 2024, Lorenna aims to be a nationwide expert. Her goal is to understand the blood collection and swab collection businesses across all states, ensuring IPS is not just a local hero but a nationwide champ.
Industry Trends of 2024: Automation, Personalized Medicine, Sustainability
What's on Lorenna's radar? Three big trends – Automation and Robotics, Personalized Medicine, and Sustainability. IPS plans to stay ahead by embracing these trends, making sure its offerings align with the ever-evolving market.
Industry Challenges: Shifting Towards Value-Based Care Models
Adapting to value-based care models is a challenge, but Lorenna is up for it. By aligning IPS products with these trends, she aims to contribute to better patient care and outcomes.
Key Lesson Learned: The Power of Effective Communication
Lorenna's big lesson? Communication is key. Whether it's training sessions or presentations, clear and concise communication ensures everyone understands the ins and outs of IPS products.
A Message to Customers: A Smooth Transition to Success
To customers considering a switch, Lorenna assures that change doesn't have to be scary. With IPS, it's about smooth transitions and beneficial processes. From the first chat to ongoing education, IPS is there for every step, ensuring your lab's success.
Lorenna Salge's journey showcases the heart and soul of Interpath Services. Stay tuned for more stories from the incredible team shaping the success of IPS in the competitive world of life science services.
If you would like to contact Lorenna or one of the Interpath team, please do so here.
February 19, 2024
The original article was provided by Greiner Vacuette.
Introduction:
In contemporary medicine, capillary blood collection is gaining popularity as a specimen material due to its simplicity and minimally invasive sampling procedure. This method is particularly beneficial for various patient groups, offering advantages such as reduced blood volumes, quicker test results, and lower risk of complications¹. However, maintaining the quality of capillary blood samples is crucial for obtaining reliable test results.
The Importance of Capillary Blood Collection:
Capillary blood sampling is vital, especially for paediatric patients, individuals with specific health conditions, and those who self-test for parameters like glucose. The success of this method relies on several key steps, including selecting the puncture site, choosing the appropriate lancet, using micro-collection devices, and executing the skin puncture with precision³.
Challenges and Limitations:
Despite its advantages, capillary blood sampling comes with inherent challenges that can lead to inaccurate test results. Factors such as the composition of capillary blood, potential contamination, and differences between venous and capillary blood analyte concentrations should be considered to ensure the reliability of diagnostic outcomes⁴ .
Recommendations for Successful Capillary Blood Collection:
To achieve high-quality capillary blood collection, awareness of potential limitations is crucial. Proper handling techniques, adherence to safety standards, and careful consideration of order of draw and filling are essential steps in minimizing the risk of false test results. Ensuring that workstations are adequately equipped, supplies are within their shelf life, and proper labeling is performed according to required tests and additives are key preparatory measures².
Procedural Steps for Capillary Blood Collection:
- Equip workstations adequately before sampling².
- Follow safety standards and guidelines for blood sampling devices⁴.
- Take necessary precautions, including hand disinfection and patient identification².
- Select and label the appropriate capillary blood tube for the requested tests².
Warm the puncture site if necessary, considering arterialisation for specific analyses³.
- Perform the skin puncture using a retractable incision device³.
- Wipe away the first drop of blood, except when required for specific testing¹.
- Collect capillary blood, following the recommended order of draw for multiple samples¹ ³.
- Cap micro-collection devices immediately to prevent exposure to air⁴.
- Mix capped samples gently to prevent clotting, following manufacturer recommendations¹ ³.
Conclusion: Capillary blood collection is a valuable method in modern medicine, offering advantages for various patient groups. By understanding the challenges associated with this technique and implementing recommended practices, healthcare professionals can ensure high-quality capillary blood samples, leading to accurate and reliable diagnostic outcomes.
[SEE GREINER VACUETTE® MINICOLLECT® CAPILLARY BLOOD COLLECTION SYSTEM]
References:
1 Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Procedures and Devices for the Collection of Diagnostic Capillary Blood Specimens; Approved Standard-Sixth Edition, Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute, Wayne, Pennsylvania, USA, 2008.
2 Rat der Europäischen Union. Richtlinie 2010/32/EU des Rates vom 10. Mai 2010 zur Durchführung der von HOSPEEM und EGÖD geschlossenen Rahmenvereinbarung zur Vermeidung von Verletzungen durch scharfe/spitze Instrumente im Krankenhaus- und Gesundheitssektor. Amtsblatt der Europäischen Union. 1. Juni 2010;L 134(53):66–72.
3 Lenicek Krleza J, Dorotic A, Grzunov A, Maradin M. Capillary blood sampling: national recommendations on behalf of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine. DOI: 10.11613/BM.2015.034, Biochem Med 25(3):335–58.
4 WHO guidelines on drawing blood: best practices in phlebotomy. Gedruckt von WHO Document Production Servis, Genf, Schweiz, 2010. Verfügbar unter: http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/268790/WHO-guidelines-on-drawingblood-best-practices-in-phlebotomy-Eng.pdf?ua=1 Abgerufen am 22. Oktober 2016.
February 19, 2024
The original article was provided by Greiner Vacuette.
Pay More Attention to the Risks
At the forefront of our concerns is the need to inform healthcare sector employees about the significant risks they face when handling and disposing of hypodermic needles. Often, these potential hazards go unnoticed or are not taken seriously, leading to a high number of unreported cases of needlestick injuries.
Healthcare professionals engaged in a variety of tasks are particularly exposed to risks when working with sharp and pointed objects like cannulas. Needlestick injuries pose a serious threat, yet their prevalence remains underestimated.
A Serious Consequence
A needlestick injury is not just a health-related concern; it could potentially end a healthcare career. Understanding the gravity of these injuries is crucial for the safety of both healthcare workers and the patients they care for.
Needlestick Injuries Are Far From Trivial
In Europe, approximately one million needlestick injuries occur annually, while In Australia, at least 18,000 healthcare professionals experience a needlestick injury every year. These injuries constitute a significant portion of workplace accidents in the healthcare sector, emphasizing their critical nature due to the potential transmission of bloodborne pathogens.
Which Pathogens are Most Dangerous?
Viruses transmitted via blood, such as Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), pose the greatest risks. The risk of infection depends on the prevalence of these viruses and the probability of infection.
Danger for Employees in the Healthcare Sector
Needlestick injuries are an occupational hazard for healthcare workers as they can lead to the transmission of bloodborne infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B and hepatitis C, with the potential for serious complications.
Other infections that can potentially be transmitted via a needlestick injury include malaria, infectious mononucleosis, diphtheria, herpes, tuberculosis and syphilis.
Which Objects Cause Injuries?
Needlestick injuries with hollow needles (injections, blood samples) are more likely to lead to infections than those with surgical needles. The aftermath of an infection can have profound effects on both the career and personal circumstances of the affected person.
How to Protect Yourself
Use of Safety Products
The use of safety products significantly reduces the risk of needlestick injuries. Various technical improvements fall into categories such as active devices requiring activation of the safety mechanism, passive devices that work automatically throughout usage, and others.
A Lot of Needlestick Injuries Could Be Avoided
Studies indicate that the frequency of needlestick injuries can be significantly reduced with the use of safety products. Applying devices with manually activated safety mechanisms, especially those activated while the needle is still in the vein, enhances safety.
How Can I Protect Myself?
The primary safety risk is the lack of education. It is crucial to take risks and warnings seriously, stay informed about potential protection measures, and use safety products. Frequent checks of protection levels are imperative, and adherence to employer-provided safety guidelines is essential.
Avoid Dangerous Working Procedures
For personal protection, avoid dangerous working procedures, use safety products, and dispose of hazardous objects in suitable containers.
Injured! What to Do?
Post-Injury Measures
In case of injury, follow recommended post-injury measures based on WHO guidelines. Recommendations include letting the wound bleed, thorough disinfection, and protection with a sterile bandage. Specific measures depend on the type of injury, such as a prick, cut, contaminated skin, or mucous membrane.
Accident Report is Important
An accident report is crucial for various reasons, including laboratory tests on the affected person and the source of infection, providing certainty and emotional relief. Employers report the incident to the insurance company, ensuring proper documentation and assistance for the affected employee.
Costs
Material and Immaterial Costs
Material costs associated with needlestick injuries are considerable but can be effectively reduced by using safety products. While safety products might have higher acquisition costs, the reduction in injury-related costs over several years offsets this. Immaterial costs, such as worries and concerns of injured employees and their families, cannot be measured in monetary terms.
In conclusion, understanding and implementing safety measures, including the use of safety products, are crucial steps in making needlestick injuries history in the healthcare sector. These practices not only protect healthcare workers but also contribute to substantial economic savings over time.
VACUETTE® QUICKSHIELD Safety Tube Holders & Accessories offer an enhanced safety feature with a manually activated mechanism. This ensures protection even while the needle is still in the vein, providing a higher level of safety.
[FIND GREINER VACUETTE® QUICKSHIELD SAFETY TUBE HOLDERS & ACCESSORIES]
January 30, 2024
A Conversation with Kimberly Sesperez, Interpath Services' Sustainability Ambassador
In the fast-evolving landscape of the life science industry, sustainability has emerged as a crucial aspect not only for responsible business practices but also for the betterment of our planet. At the forefront of this movement is Interpath Services, a proud member of the Bunzl APAC family, where Kimberly Sesperez passionately serves as a Sustainability Ambassador.
In a recent interview, Kimberly shared insights into her role, personal goals, and the exciting changes she envisions for the sustainability landscape within the life science industry.
A Passionate Journey Begins
Kimberly embarked on her journey as a Sustainability Ambassador driven by a profound interest in supporting educational outreach on sustainability at Interpath Services. For her, being a Sustainability Ambassador is more than a role; it's an opportunity to inspire positive change within the life science industry. She sees it as a platform to spread the message of sustainability to customers and fellow staff members alike, fostering a culture of responsibility and mindfulness.
Personal Goals for a Sustainable Future
When asked about her personal goals in the realm of sustainability, Kimberly expressed a strong desire to educate and create awareness among colleagues and collaborators about the importance of sustainable practices in the life science industry. She aims to encourage the adoption of sustainable research practices, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and responsible community.
Excitement in Collaboration
Kimberly's excitement comes to the forefront when discussing working with customers on sustainability initiatives. She is particularly thrilled about assisting customers in incorporating sustainable research practices. Currently, the team is actively developing ideas to provide promotional and educational materials, further facilitating the integration of sustainable practices within their client base.
The Call for Transparency
In the quest for a more sustainable industry, Kimberly highlighted a notable concern - the lack of transparency in some companies regarding their sustainability practices. She emphasized the need for improved reporting and transparency, as it plays a crucial role in empowering stakeholders, including consumers and investors, to make informed choices.
Embracing Circular Economy Practices
What excites Kimberly the most about the changing sustainability landscape is the increasing adoption of circular economy practices within the life science industry. Companies are embracing the concept, focusing on designing products and processes that minimize waste and promote recycling. This shift represents a commitment to reducing the environmental impact over the entire product life cycle, marking a positive step towards a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, Kimberly Sesperez's journey as a Sustainability Ambassador at Interpath Services showcases the dedication and enthusiasm needed to drive positive change in the life science industry. With a focus on education, collaboration, and transparency, Kimberly and her team are not just embracing sustainability but actively shaping its future within their organization and beyond. As they continue to champion responsible practices, one can only anticipate the ripple effect their efforts will create in the broader landscape of sustainability within the life science sector.
If you would like to know More about this Area, Please Contact Kimberley.
January 30, 2024
As part of its product offering of essential life science and laboratory solutions, Interpath Services provides a range of heavy-duty plastic bags and sharps containers, giving a great second (and third) life to RIC # 1 polyethylene plastics. These products are identified by the Modius Loop.
Are you familiar with this recycling loop, with its three bent arrows forming a circle? That’s the Modius Loop, the universal symbol for cycling that first appeared in 1970 – initially to raise consumer awareness of recycled paper.
Fast forward to 1988 and another, very similar logo appeared – a triangle with the numbers 1 to 7 in the middle. You know that one too, I’m sure. This is the plastic resin identification code and it indicates the resin composition of the plastic. The number tells us what type of plastic the container is made from. It was first developed to help recyclers know which plastic a product or packaging was made from so they could determine its recyclability.
Confusing? Yes, it certainly is.
The similarity between the recycling symbol and the plastics identification symbols has made it hard for consumers to know what to put in which bin for a long time. Sometimes the plastic-type correlates with whether it's recyclable, but not always. Recyclability can also depend on other things like the shape of the container as well.
To make the process easier a new recyclability label was developed in 2018 for both Australia and New Zealand. The ARL (Australasian Recycling Label) is an on-pack labelling scheme that helps consumers understand how to recycle products correctly. Shown below, you can see the label makes it easier to understand which component goes into which bin.
More about the plastic identification codes.
Each number within the triangle represents a type of plastic, and different types of plastics are generally used in particular ways, as follows:
PET bottles can be recycled into new containers, pallet straps, panelling, carpet and clothing fibres, and fibrefill for soft furnishings and sleeping bags.
# 2 – this high-density polyethylene, or HDPE, is also easily recycled. You can find HDPE in shampoo bottles, butter tubs, shopping bags, bags inside cereal boxes, household cleaners and detergent bottles.
HDPE plastic can be recycled into timber, drainage pipes, pens, fencing, picnic tables, benches, and floor tiles, plus back into more bags and bottles.
Vinyl is rarely recycled. A tiny percentage of PVC is recycled into mats, speed bumps, cables, flooring, roadway gutters, mud flaps, panelling and decks.
# 4 – this plastic is low-density polyethylene or LDPE. It is commonly found in shopping bags, squeezable bottles, carpets, furniture, clothing, tote bags, dry cleaning bags, and frozen food or bread bags. And you know that bubble wrap you love to pop?
LDPE is rarely recycled, but when it is it is recycled back into similar types of products
PP is not often recycled. When it is it can be made into trays, pallets, bins, rakes, bicycle racks, landscape borders, auto battery cases, brushes, brooms, battery cables, and signal lights.
# 6 – is the plastic polystyrene (PS), which is also commonly referred to as Styrofoam. You can find PS in disposable cups and plates, carry-out containers, egg cartons, and meat trays.
Difficult to recycle as it’s lightweight so there’s not much material to reclaim. It can, however, be recycled into packaging and containers, as well as foam packing, light switch plates and insulation.
Now when you view our product range you know a little more about product symbols.
January 30, 2024
The original article was provided by Copan USA.
In the intricate realm of microbiological studies, the preservation and recovery of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) play a pivotal role, especially concerning skin and soft tissue infections. This exploration delves into the effectiveness of the Copan ESwab™ collection and transport system, generously provided by Copan Diagnostics Inc.
Methodology: A Scientific Symphony
To unravel the mysteries of NTM viability, the study orchestrated viability tests in triplicate, employing ESwabs and the roll plate method, meticulously adhering to CLSI M40-A2 guidelines. The ESwabs underwent duplication, with one set basking at room temperature (20°C to 25°C) and the counterpart chilling in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C), spanning intervals of 0, 24, and 48 hours before processing.
Five chosen mycobacterial isolates, including the formidable Mycobacterium abscessus, M. fortuitum, M. chelonae, M. marinum, and M. haemophilum, took center stage. Planted on Columbia blood agar plates, these microorganisms danced to the rhythm of incubation at 30°C in an oxygen-rich environment for 5 to 7 days. Post-incubation, they gracefully transformed into 0.5 McFarland suspensions, underwent serial dilutions, and embraced the ESwabs.
Immersed in the organism suspension and tucked into corresponding ESwab tubes, the swabs embarked on their journey for colony counts on Middlebrook 7H10 agar or blood agar plates.
Revelations: A Glimpse into NTM Viability
The spotlight unveiled a fascinating spectacle: all five organisms emerged with countable colonies at dilutions of 10^6, 10^5, and/or 10^4. The counts, approximately ranging from 300 to 500 CFU/mL at 24 and 48 hours, stood in stark comparison to the initial counts at 0 hours.
Conclusion: Copan ESwab™ - A Maestro of Mycobacterial Maintenance
The symphony of results harmonized into a resounding conclusion. The Copan ESwab collection and transport system exhibited its prowess, effectively maintaining and recovering NTM for an impressive 48 hours at both room and refrigeration temperatures.
Traditionally, routine swab collections might be deemed suboptimal for mycobacterial recovery. However, this study illuminated the high efficiency of ESwabs in the recovery of mycobacterial isolates, sparking curiosity for further investigation into the utility of ESwabs in clinically infected patients.
As the curtain falls on this scientific odyssey, the Copan ESwab™ emerges not just as a collection tool but as a maestro orchestrating the symphony of mycobacterial viability with precision and efficiency. The encore beckons, inviting researchers to delve deeper into the untapped potential of ESwabs in the quest for unraveling the secrets of NTM in clinically relevant scenarios.
[CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL PDF]
Date July 3, 2019
Conference or Journal Sinai Health System
Author(s) Gandh Wood Mazzulli
Categories ESwab™
January 30, 2024
The original article was provided by Copan USA.
In the intricate landscape of medical diagnostics, unravelling the mysteries of gastrointestinal (GI) pathogens poses a significant challenge. The traditional methods, relying on unpreserved or Cary-Blair preserved stools, have been the norm. However, our diagnostic odyssey explores an alternative avenue – the Copan FecalSwab®.
The backdrop of our study is set against the canvas of the BD MAX™ Enteric Bacterial Panel and BD MAX™ Extended Enteric Bacterial Panel (BDM GIP) – sophisticated multiplex PCR tests capable of detecting up to eight different GI pathogens. Unlike the conventional approaches, the Copan FecalSwab® introduces a pragmatic alternative, utilizing Cary-Blair medium for specimen preservation.
Materials & Methods: Crafting Precision in Diagnostics
Our quest for efficiency led us to meticulously evaluate the FecalSwab® preserved stool specimens in tandem with BDM GIP. Negative stool samples, artfully inoculated with strains representing each BDM GIP target, took center stage. The performance was scrutinized on the BD MAX™ System, using varied input volumes (10 µl, 25 µl, and 50 µl) for FecalSwab® and the recommended volumes for Para-Pak.
Results: The Symphony of Diagnostic Precision
As the data unfolded, a pivotal revelation emerged – 50 µl of FecalSwab® stool-preserved samples stood out as the optimal volume for BDM GIP. The real-world applicability shone through as 93 out of 139 clinical samples displayed positivity for at least one BDM GIP target. A symphony of results unfolded, showcasing a remarkable 100% agreement between FecalSwab® and Para-Pak.
Discussion: A Paradigm Shift in Gastrointestinal Pathogen Detection
The traditional narrative of using Cary-Blair preserved stools is met with a transformative alternative – the Copan FecalSwab®. This study not only determines the ideal FecalSwab® volume but also positions it as an equivalent performer to the recommended Meridian Para-Pak® Cary-Blair medium for the BD MAX GI Panels.
Conclusion: The Echoes of Diagnostic Simplicity
In the complex realm of GI pathogen detection, the Copan FecalSwab® emerges as a beacon of simplicity and effectiveness. This user-friendly alternative to stool sample testing not only simplifies the diagnostic process but also underscores the importance of innovation in the realm of medical diagnostics. As we conclude our diagnostic odyssey, the Copan FecalSwab® stands tall, offering a pragmatic and effective solution in the ever-evolving landscape of medical diagnostics.
[CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL PDF]
Date April 13, 2019
Conference or Journal Poster Presented at the 2019 ECCMID Meeting in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Author(s) Suzane Silbert Hanen Fernandez Rojas Carly Kubasek Alicia Gostnell Ray Widen
Categories FecalSwab®
June 22, 2023
In the world of science, one of the biggest challenges is transporting samples between different locations without damaging or altering their properties. The development of universal transport mediums (UTMs) has been a significant breakthrough in scientific research, especially in the fields of medicine and biology.
UTMs are chemical reagents that are used to preserve and transfer samples (commonly blood, urine, or tissue) from one lab to another, and ensure that they arrive at their destination in a stable and intact condition. They are particularly important in the field of medical and diagnostic research as they can help to prevent contamination, degradation or other changes that can affect the quality and reliability of the samples.
The main advantage of UTMs is their versatility, which means they can be used to preserve many different types of samples. Some of the most common UTMs used in scientific research include RNA and DNA stabilizing agents, preservatives for microbiology samples, and transport media for viruses and bacteria.
One of the most frequently used UTMs is the RNA and DNA stabilizing agent. This UTM is used to stabilize RNA and DNA in samples, even when they are exposed to extreme temperatures or other environmental stresses. This allows researchers to extract genetic material from the samples and perform analysis even hours or days after the samples were collected.
UTMs are also crucial in microbiology research. They help to preserve the viability of microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, and maintain their morphology, which allows researchers to accurately identify and culture them for study. Without effective UTMs, microorganisms would rapidly die or change in their physical and biochemical properties, making it difficult to conduct meaningful research.
UTMs are a critical tool in the fight against infectious diseases, as they allow samples to be transported and analysed in a safe and secure manner. In particular, they are widely used in the detection of emerging viruses, such as the Ebola virus and Zika virus, which require swift and accurate diagnosis.
Using quality UTMs will keep your samples preserved and transported in a manner that maintains their integrity, ensuring that you’re achieving accurate and reliable results.
Contact the Interpath Services team to learn more.
June 22, 2023
Centrifuge tubes are commonly used in scientific laboratories for the collection and separation of materials. Most commonly made from polypropylene, polycarbonate and glass, these tubes come in a variety of different sizes with different sizes to accommodate different volumes of samples.
Designed to withstand high speed and centrifugal force, centrifuge tubes are ideal for a wide range of applications across biological, chemical, and medical research fields. In biology, these tubes are used in experiments that require separating different components of a mixture such as blood cells or DNA. Medical laboratories will also often use them to analyze blood and other body fluids, while chemistry labs use them in the purification of chemicals.
Centrifuge tubes come in different sizes, often ranging from 0.2 mL to 50 mL. The smaller tubes are used for micro-centrifugation, while the larger tubes are used in equipment like floor-standing centrifuges. They are also available in various shapes from cylindrical and conical to even round-bottom tubes.
What are the different types of tubes?
One of the most common type of tubes are ones made from polypropylene, which will often be used in routine research applications as they are durable, resistant to breakage, and can withstand high centrifugal forces. Moreover, they are disposable and do not have to be cleaned after use, which makes them convenient for routine experiments.
Polycarbonate tubes are known for their greater transparency, heat resistance, and chemical compatibility, which make them ideal for use in procedures that require higher temperatures.
Glass centrifuge tubes are ideal for experiments that involve harsh chemicals or compounds. These tubes can hold up to chemical reactions and high temperature, making them suitable for use in high-pressure systems with centrifuges and ultracentrifuges. They are also washable and reusable, but they are fragile and can break easily.
When using centrifuge tubes, it is essential to handle them with the utmost care to avoid cracking or breaking. The tubes should be correctly labelled, and the exact volume of the sample loaded should be followed closely to ensure that the experiment obtains accurate results. The tubes should also be balanced correctly in the centrifuge to prevent them from breaking or unbalancing the machine.
Centrifuge tubes are an essential tool in scientific laboratories and are versatile and useful across various applications. When using them, proper care should be taken to avoid damage and ensure accurate results.
Contact the Interpath Services team to learn more.
June 22, 2023
Laboratory pipettes are important tools used to accurately measure and dispense liquids in the lab. However, the accuracy of a pipette is only as good as the quality and fit of the pipette tips used with it.
Pipette tips are small, disposable attachments designed to fit onto the end of a pipette. They come in various sizes and materials, often made of either plastic or glass, and are uniquely designed to fit specific pipette models and volumes. This specificity ensures that you get precise measurements when dispensing liquid into your samples.
How do you find the right pipette tip?
There are several important factors to consider when choosing pipette tips. Firstly, the fit of the pipette tip must be snug to prevent leakage or inaccuracy. Secondly, the tip should be compatible with the liquid being pipetted, meaning it should not react with the liquid or cause contamination. Thirdly, the tip must be free of debris or defects, as these can negatively impact the accuracy of measurements.
Modern pipette tips have evolved significantly over the years to meet the high demands of scientific research. Today, many pipette tips are made from advanced materials that minimize adhesion and reduce the risk of contamination. Some pipette tips are also designed to repel liquids, making them ideal for viscous or dense liquids. Furthermore, pipette tips with positive displacement technology have been developed for dispensing liquid samples with high accuracy and precision.
It is crucial to find the correct pipette tip for the job that you’re doing, as using the wrong tip can adversely and significantly affect your results. Using the wrong tip or reusing tips multiple times from different jobs can result in cross-contamination and inaccurate results – jeopardizing the validity of your experiments.
A laboratory essential, pipette tips are designed to ensure precise, accurate measurements and prevent contamination, which are crucial in scientific research. By choosing the right pipette tip for your specific needs, you can improve accuracy, save time, and ultimately increase the reliability of your results.
Contact the Interpath Services team to learn more.
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Interpath Services is part of Bunzl Australasia, as is Bunzl Australia & New Zealand, Atlas McNeil Healthcare, Bunzl Safety, Fire Rescue Safety Australia (FRSA), Harvey Distributors, Interpath Services, LSH Industrial Solutions Singapore, Medshop, Obex Medical. All are part of the Bunzl plc group of companies.