Final answer:
A tiger top tube, used for collecting serum for laboratory tests, should be gently inverted 5 to 6 times to ensure proper mixing of blood with the clot activator and to prevent clotting issues or hemolysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the correct procedure for handling a tiger top tube, also known as a serum separator tube. These tubes are used in the collection of serum for various laboratory tests and require proper handling to ensure sample integrity. The general guideline for inverting a tiger top tube is to do so 5 to 6 times. This inversion is necessary to facilitate the mixing of the blood with the clot activator that is present in the tube.
Inverting the tube prevents the blood from clotting too quickly and ensures that the clot activator is evenly distributed. Failure to adequately invert the tube can lead to inaccurate test results. It is also essential not to shake the tube vigorously, as this can cause hemolysis and again lead to compromised results.