Key Differences Between SST (Serum Separator Tube) and Red Top Tube in Phlebotomy and Lab Procedures in the United States

Summary

• SST and Red Top tubes are commonly used in phlebotomy and medical lab procedures in the United States.
• SST tubes contain a gel separator that separates serum from blood cells, while Red Top tubes do not have any additive and are used for various tests.
• Understanding the differences between SST and Red Top tubes is crucial for accurate blood sample collection and testing in healthcare settings.

SST (Serum Separator Tube) vs. Red Top Tube: Key Differences

Introduction

When it comes to collecting blood samples for clinical tests, phlebotomists often use different types of tubes to separate components of blood efficiently. Two commonly used tubes in the United States are the SST (serum separator tube) and the Red Top tube. While both are essential for phlebotomy and medical lab procedures, they serve different purposes and have specific features that distinguish them from each other.

SST (Serum Separator Tube)

The SST Tube is a specialized blood collection tube that contains a gel separator at the bottom. This gel separator forms a barrier between the serum (liquid portion of the blood) and the clot, allowing for easy separation after centrifugation. Here are some key features of SST tubes:

1. Contains a gel separator that aids in separating serum from blood cells.
2. Commonly used for tests that require serum samples, such as glucose, cholesterol, and liver function tests.
3. After blood collection, the tube must be inverted gently to mix the blood with the gel separator.
4. During centrifugation, the gel separator moves to the top of the tube, forming a distinct barrier between serum and clot.

Red Top Tube

The Red Top tube, also known as a plain tube, does not contain any gel or additive. It is used for various blood tests that do not require serum separation. Here are some key features of Red Top tubes:

1. Does not contain any additive or gel separator.
2. Used for tests that require whole blood, such as blood cell counts, blood typing, and Drug Level Monitoring.
3. After blood collection, the tube must be allowed to clot naturally before centrifugation.
4. Once the blood clots, the tube is centrifuged to separate the serum from the clot manually.

Key Differences

While both SST and Red Top tubes are essential for blood sample collection and testing, they have some key differences that phlebotomists and medical laboratory professionals should be aware of:

1. Additive: SST tubes contain a gel separator, while Red Top tubes do not have any additive.
2. Usage: SST tubes are used for tests that require serum separation, while Red Top tubes are used for tests that do not require serum separation.
3. Processing: SST tubes require gentle inversion to mix the blood with the gel separator, while Red Top tubes require natural clotting before centrifugation.
4. Centrifugation: SST tubes form a distinct barrier between serum and clot during centrifugation, while Red Top tubes require manual separation of serum from the clot.

Conclusion

Understanding the key differences between SST and Red Top tubes is crucial for accurate blood sample collection and testing in healthcare settings. Phlebotomists must be knowledgeable about the specific uses and processing requirements of each tube to ensure reliable Test Results. By using the right tube for the right test, healthcare professionals can provide optimal care for patients and contribute to effective medical diagnosis and treatment.

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