Preservation of Blood Samples in Gold Top (SST) and Red Top Tubes: Understanding the Differences
Summary
Gold Top (SST) tubes are used to preserve blood samples for testing purposes.
These tubes contain a gel separator that helps separate the serum from the blood cells.
Red Top tubes are used for preserving whole blood samples without any additives.
Introduction
When it comes to preserving blood samples for various tests, it is essential to use the right type of tubes to ensure accurate results. Two commonly used tubes for this purpose are Gold Top (SST) tubes and Red Top tubes. In this article, we will discuss how samples are preserved in these tubes and the differences between them.
Preservation in Gold Top (SST) Tubes
Gold Top tubes, also known as Serum Separator Tubes (SST), are designed to preserve blood samples for various tests that require serum. These tubes contain a gel separator that helps separate the serum from the blood cells once the sample has been centrifuged. The gel forms a barrier between the serum and the cells, preventing them from mixing and ensuring a clear separation.
Collecting the sample: The blood sample is drawn directly into the Gold Top tube using a needle attached to a syringe or a vacuum tube system.
Processing: Once the sample has been collected, it is essential to invert the tube several times to ensure proper mixing with the gel separator.
Centrifugation: The tube is then placed in a centrifuge, where it spins rapidly to separate the serum from the blood cells. The gel separator helps to keep the serum in place while the cells are pushed to the bottom of the tube.
Storage: After centrifugation, the tube can be stored upright or on its side, depending on the laboratory's protocols. It is crucial to label the tube with the patient's information to ensure traceability.
Preservation in Red Top Tubes
Red Top tubes are used to preserve whole blood samples without any additives. These tubes do not contain a gel separator and are typically used for tests that require whole blood, such as blood cell counts or DNA analysis. The samples in Red Top tubes are preserved in their natural state without any additional processing.
Collecting the sample: Similar to Gold Top tubes, the blood sample is collected directly into the Red Top tube using a needle and syringe or a vacuum tube system.
Processing: Once the sample has been collected, it is essential to invert the tube several times to mix the blood properly.
Storage: Red Top tubes are typically stored upright at room temperature until further processing. It is crucial to label the tube with the patient's information for traceability.
Differences Between Gold Top and Red Top Tubes
While both Gold Top (SST) tubes and Red Top tubes are used for preserving blood samples, there are some key differences between the two:
Additives: Gold Top tubes contain a gel separator that helps separate serum from blood cells, while Red Top tubes do not contain any additives and preserve whole blood samples in their natural state.
Tests: Gold Top tubes are typically used for tests that require serum, such as glucose or cholesterol levels, while Red Top tubes are used for tests that require whole blood, such as blood cell counts or DNA analysis.
Storage: Gold Top tubes can be stored upright or on their side after centrifugation, while Red Top tubes are typically stored upright at room temperature until further processing.
Conclusion
Proper preservation of blood samples is crucial for accurate Test Results, and using the right type of tubes is essential in this process. Gold Top (SST) tubes are used to preserve blood samples for tests that require serum, while Red Top tubes are used for preserving whole blood samples without any additives. Understanding the differences between these two types of tubes can help healthcare professionals ensure the integrity of the samples and the accuracy of the Test Results.
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