Main Differences Between an Sst Tube and a Red Top Tube in Medical Lab and Phlebotomy Practices in the United States
Summary
- SST tubes contain a gel separator that helps in the process of centrifugation, while Red Top tubes do not have any gel separator.
- SST tubes are typically used for tests that require serum, such as chemistry tests, while Red Top tubes are used for tests that require whole blood, such as blood typing.
- The choice between SST and Red Top tubes depends on the specific tests being performed and the requirements of the healthcare provider.
Main Differences Between an SST Tube and a Red Top Tube in Medical Lab and Phlebotomy Practices in the United States
When it comes to medical lab and phlebotomy practices in the United States, there are several types of tubes that are commonly used to collect and store blood samples for testing. Two of the most common types of tubes used in these practices are the SST Tube (serum separator tube) and the Red Top tube. While both tubes are used for blood collection, they have distinct differences in their composition and intended use. In this article, we will explore the main differences between an SST Tube and a Red Top tube in medical lab and phlebotomy practices in the United States.
Composition of SST Tube and Red Top Tube
The main difference between an SST Tube and a Red Top tube lies in their composition. An SST Tube, also known as a serum separator tube, contains a gel separator at the bottom of the tube. This gel acts as a barrier between the serum and the clot after centrifugation, allowing for easy separation of the serum from the blood cells. On the other hand, a Red Top tube does not contain any gel separator. Instead, it relies on clot activation to separate the serum from the clot during the centrifugation process.
Intended Use of SST Tube and Red Top Tube
Due to their different compositions, SST tubes and Red Top tubes are used for different types of tests in medical lab and phlebotomy practices. SST tubes are typically used for tests that require serum, such as chemistry tests, hormone tests, and serology tests. The gel separator in the SST Tube ensures that the serum obtained after centrifugation is free of any blood cells or clots, making it ideal for these types of tests. On the other hand, Red Top tubes are used for tests that require whole blood, such as blood typing, cross-matching, and certain coagulation studies. The absence of a gel separator in the Red Top tube allows for clot formation during the centrifugation process, which is necessary for these types of tests.
Considerations for Healthcare Providers
When deciding between an SST Tube and a Red Top tube for blood collection, Healthcare Providers must consider the specific tests being performed and the requirements of the laboratory. Some tests may require serum that is free of clotting factors, in which case an SST Tube would be the appropriate choice. Other tests may require whole blood or serum with clotting factors, in which case a Red Top tube would be more suitable. Healthcare Providers must also consider factors such as sample stability, transportation, and processing requirements when choosing between SST tubes and Red Top tubes for blood collection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the main differences between an SST Tube and a Red Top tube in medical lab and phlebotomy practices in the United States lie in their composition and intended use. SST tubes contain a gel separator that helps in the process of centrifugation, while Red Top tubes do not have any gel separator. SST tubes are typically used for tests that require serum, while Red Top tubes are used for tests that require whole blood. The choice between SST and Red Top tubes depends on the specific tests being performed and the requirements of the healthcare provider. By understanding these differences, Healthcare Providers can ensure accurate and reliable Test Results for their patients.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.