Sst Tube Vs Red Top Tube: A Comparison For Blood Collection In The Medical Lab

Summary

• SST Tube and Red Top tube are both commonly used for blood collection in the medical lab setting.
• SST Tube contains a gel separator that separates the blood cells from the serum, while the Red Top tube does not contain any separator.
• The choice between SST Tube and Red Top tube depends on the specific tests being conducted and the requirements of the healthcare provider.

SST Tube vs Red Top Tube: A Comparison

When it comes to blood collection in the medical lab and phlebotomy setting, healthcare professionals often use SST tubes and Red Top tubes for various tests. While both tubes serve the same purpose of collecting blood samples, there are significant differences between the two in terms of their composition and usage. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between using an SST Tube and a Red Top tube for blood collection in the context of medical lab and phlebotomy practices in the United States.

SST Tube

The SST Tube, also known as the serum separator tube, is a commonly used blood collection tube in healthcare settings. The SST Tube contains a gel separator that separates the blood cells from the serum when the blood sample is centrifuged. This gel separator allows for easy and accurate separation of serum from the blood cells, making it an ideal choice for various laboratory tests that require serum samples.

1. Composition of SST Tube:
• Gel Separator: The gel separator in the SST Tube is made of a special material that has a specific density, allowing it to separate the serum from the blood cells during centrifugation.
• Clot Activator: The SST Tube may also contain a Clot Activator that helps in the clotting process, ensuring the blood sample clots properly before centrifugation.
• Tube Color: The SST Tube is commonly colored with a gold or red-gray cap, indicating its specific use for serum separation.
2. Usage of SST Tube:
• The SST Tube is used for a wide range of laboratory tests that require serum samples, such as liver function tests, lipid profile, glucose testing, and hormone levels.
• When collecting blood samples using an SST Tube, it is essential to ensure proper mixing of the tube to activate the clotting process before centrifugation.
• The serum separated from the blood cells in the SST Tube can be easily extracted for various laboratory analyses, providing accurate and reliable Test Results.

Red Top Tube

The Red Top tube, on the other hand, is another commonly used blood collection tube that does not contain a gel separator like the SST Tube. The Red Top tube is designed to collect whole blood samples without any separation of components, making it suitable for tests that require whole blood specimens.

1. Composition of Red Top Tube:
• No Separator: Unlike the SST Tube, the Red Top tube does not contain a gel separator or any additive that separates the blood components.
• Tube Color: The Red Top tube is typically colored with a red cap, indicating its use for collecting whole blood samples.
2. Usage of Red Top Tube:
• The Red Top tube is used for tests that require whole blood specimens, such as blood count, blood typing, and Blood Culture tests.
• When collecting blood samples using a Red Top tube, it is essential to invert the tube several times to ensure proper mixing of the blood components before analysis.
• Whole blood samples collected in the Red Top tube can be tested directly without the need for serum separation, providing quick and efficient results for certain laboratory tests.

Choosing the Right Tube for Blood Collection

When it comes to choosing between an SST Tube and a Red Top tube for blood collection in the medical lab and phlebotomy setting, healthcare professionals need to consider the specific requirements of the tests being conducted. The choice between the two tubes depends on the type of analysis needed and the preferences of the healthcare provider. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right tube for blood collection:

1. Type of Test: Consider the type of laboratory test that will be performed and whether it requires serum or whole blood samples for analysis.
2. Sample Volume: Determine the volume of blood sample needed for the test and choose a tube that can accommodate the required sample volume.
3. Patient Comfort: Consider the comfort and convenience of the patient when selecting the blood collection tube, ensuring a positive experience during the procedure.

Overall, both SST tubes and Red Top tubes play essential roles in blood collection for laboratory testing in the United States. Healthcare professionals must understand the differences between the two tubes and choose the appropriate tube based on the specific requirements of the tests being conducted. By selecting the right tube for blood collection, Healthcare Providers can ensure accurate and reliable Test Results for patient diagnosis and treatment.



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