This story happened back before our previous lab manager retired. Talk about a dry sense of humor, hers is as dry as the sands in the desert!
A nurse walked in and asked what the difference is between serum and plasma. She gave her the whole lecture that the difference is whether or not an anticoagulant is used. They are both the liquid portion of blood but plasma still has fibrinogen in it because it hasn’t clotted.
The nurse tried to internalize what she just said. Then, asked a question. Isn’t serum supposed to be red? Her reply was “only if drawn by a nurse!”
I was listening to the entire conversation trying to contain my laughter. The nurse looked a bit confused, nodded, and went back to her station. I don’t think the nurse understood what she really meant 😀
Submitted by:
George Peters
Laboratory Manager
Montana, USA
