Differences Between SST Tube and Red Top Tube in Blood Collection
Summary
- The SST Tube contains a gel separator that allows for the separation of serum from the blood cells, while the Red Top tube does not have any separator.
- Sample collected in the SST Tube can be centrifuged immediately after collection, while the sample in the Red Top tube needs to clot before centrifugation.
- The type of tube used for sample collection can impact the accuracy and reliability of Test Results in a clinical lab setting.
Introduction
In a medical lab setting, the type of tube used for sample collection can have a significant impact on the accuracy and reliability of Test Results. Two commonly used tubes for blood collection are the Serum Separator Tube (SST) and the Red Top tube. While both tubes serve a similar purpose of collecting blood samples for testing, there are specific differences in their design and function that are important to understand.
SST Tube
The Serum Separator Tube, or SST Tube, is a specially designed tube that contains a gel separator at the bottom. This gel forms a barrier between the serum and the blood cells, allowing for the easy separation of the two components after centrifugation. When a blood sample is collected in an SST Tube, it can be centrifuged immediately after collection, and the serum can be extracted for testing without the need for additional processing steps.
Advantages of SST Tube
- Easy and quick separation of serum from blood cells
- Reduces the risk of contamination or hemolysis during centrifugation
- Allows for rapid processing of samples in a clinical lab setting
Disadvantages of SST Tube
- May be more expensive than other types of blood collection tubes
- Requires proper handling and storage to prevent gel deterioration
- Not suitable for all types of tests that require whole blood samples
Red Top Tube
The Red Top tube, also known as a plain tube, does not contain any gel separator. When a blood sample is collected in a Red Top tube, it needs to clot before it can be centrifuged. During the clotting process, the blood cells settle at the bottom of the tube, and the serum remains on top. After clotting, the sample can be centrifuged to separate the serum for testing.
Advantages of Red Top Tube
- Cost-effective option for blood collection in a clinical lab setting
- Suitable for a wide range of tests that require serum samples
- Does not require specialized equipment for processing
Disadvantages of Red Top Tube
- Clotting process can take time, delaying the processing of samples
- Increased risk of contamination or hemolysis if not handled properly
- Not as efficient as SST Tube for rapid sample processing
Key Differences
While both the SST Tube and Red Top tube are commonly used for blood collection in a medical lab setting, there are specific differences in their design and function that make them suitable for different types of tests. Understanding these differences is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of Test Results.
Sample Collection
The SST Tube contains a gel separator that allows for the easy separation of serum from blood cells, while the Red Top tube does not have any separator. This difference in design impacts the processing of samples after collection.
Processing
Sample collected in the SST Tube can be centrifuged immediately after collection, as the gel separator ensures the serum remains on top. In contrast, the sample in the Red Top tube needs to clot before centrifugation, which can delay the processing of samples in a clinical lab setting.
Suitable Tests
While the SST Tube is ideal for rapid processing of samples that require serum separation, the Red Top tube is a cost-effective option for a wide range of tests that require serum samples. Choosing the right tube for sample collection can impact the accuracy and reliability of Test Results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the specific difference between the SST Tube and Red Top tube in terms of sample collection and processing in a medical lab setting in the United States lies in their design and function. The SST Tube with a gel separator allows for easy separation of serum from blood cells and rapid sample processing, while the Red Top tube requires clotting before centrifugation and is a cost-effective option for a wide range of tests. Understanding these differences is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure the accuracy and reliability of Test Results in clinical lab settings.
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