Sst Tube Vs. Red Top Tube: Understanding The Differences
Summary
- SST tubes and Red Top tubes are commonly used in medical labs for phlebotomy procedures in the United States.
- SST tubes contain a gel separator that aids in separating blood components, while Red Top tubes do not have any additives.
- The choice between SST tubes and Red Top tubes depends on the specific tests being performed and the requirements of the healthcare provider.
SST Tube vs. Red Top Tube: Understanding the Differences
In the realm of phlebotomy procedures in the United States, Healthcare Providers often rely on various types of blood collection tubes to obtain samples for diagnostic testing. Two commonly used tubes are the Serum Separator Tube (SST) and the Red Top Tube. While both tubes serve a similar purpose of collecting blood samples, there are key differences in their composition and usage that are important to understand.
Composition of SST Tubes
SST tubes, also known as serum separator tubes, are tubes that contain a gel barrier designed to separate blood components after the sample has been centrifuged. The gel separator sits between the serum and the clot, allowing for easy extraction of the serum without any interference from the clot or other blood components. This gel barrier plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy of certain laboratory tests that require clear serum samples.
Composition of Red Top Tubes
In contrast, Red Top Tubes do not contain any gel or additives. These tubes are primarily used for collecting samples that require whole blood or serum, depending on the specific testing requirements. The absence of a gel separator in Red Top tubes means that the blood will clot naturally during the centrifugation process, and the serum will need to be carefully extracted to avoid contamination from the clot.
Usage of SST Tubes
SST tubes are commonly used in situations where the healthcare provider needs to perform tests that require isolation of the serum from other blood components. Some of the common tests that may require SST tubes include:
- Basic metabolic panel (BMP)
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Lipid panel
- Thyroid function tests
Usage of Red Top Tubes
On the other hand, Red Top tubes are more versatile and can be used for a wide range of tests that do not require the isolation of serum. Some examples of tests that may use Red Top tubes include:
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Blood Glucose levels
- Certain drug tests
- Blood bank compatibility testing
Choosing the Right Tube for Phlebotomy Procedures
When deciding between using an SST Tube or a Red Top tube for phlebotomy procedures, Healthcare Providers must consider the specific requirements of the tests being performed. Factors such as the need for serum isolation, the presence of gel separators, and the potential for clotting all play a role in determining the most appropriate blood collection tube for the job.
Ultimately, both SST tubes and Red Top tubes serve important functions in the realm of clinical laboratory testing. By understanding the differences between these two types of tubes and their respective uses, Healthcare Providers can ensure the accuracy and reliability of the Diagnostic Tests they perform.
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