What is the appropriate storage condition for blood and urine samples after collection?

Blood and urine samples should be refrigerated after collection to preserve their integrity and prevent degradation. Refrigeration slows down bacterial growth and enzymatic activity that could alter the chemical composition of the samples. This is particularly important for urine samples, which may contain elements that can quickly break down or change under warmer conditions.

Storing samples at room temperature can lead to changes in concentration and degradation of certain components, which can compromise test results. Similarly, keeping them in a warm environment is not appropriate as it could accelerate the breakdown processes due to higher temperatures. Freezing samples is generally not advisable for most urine and blood tests, as it can cause hemolysis in blood samples and alter the sediment composition in urine.

Thus, the correct method for ensuring the samples remain stable and reliable for analysis is to store them in a refrigerated environment.