Understanding the Differences Between SST Tubes and Red Top Tubes
Summary
- SST tubes are commonly used for testing blood serum, while Red Top tubes are used for testing blood plasma.
- SST tubes contain a gel at the bottom to separate serum from cells, while Red Top tubes do not contain any gel or separator.
- The choice between SST and Red Top tubes depends on the specific tests being conducted and the preferences of the laboratory.
Introduction
In the medical laboratory setting, collecting blood samples is a crucial step in diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions. Different types of tubes are used to collect blood samples, with two common options being SST tubes and Red Top tubes. Understanding the differences in the uses and purposes of collecting blood samples in these tubes is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results.
SST Tubes
SST tubes, also known as serum separator tubes, are commonly used in the medical laboratory setting for testing blood serum. These tubes contain a gel at the bottom, which acts as a separator between the serum and the cells in the blood sample. When the blood sample is centrifuged, the gel forms a barrier that allows the serum to separate from the cells, making it easier to collect for testing.
- SST tubes are often used for tests that require serum, such as liver function tests, lipid panels, and hormone levels.
- The gel in SST tubes helps to prevent cells from mixing with the serum, reducing the risk of hemolysis and ensuring more accurate Test Results.
- Healthcare professionals prefer SST tubes for certain tests because they provide a clear and uncontaminated sample of blood serum, which is essential for diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions.
Red Top Tubes
Red Top tubes, on the other hand, are used for testing blood plasma, which is the liquid portion of the blood that remains after the cells have been removed. Unlike SST tubes, Red Top tubes do not contain any gel or separator to separate the plasma from the cells in the blood sample. Instead, the blood sample is centrifuged to separate the plasma from the cells, which are then discarded to collect the plasma for testing.
- Red Top tubes are commonly used for tests that require plasma, such as coagulation studies, blood typing, and certain infectious disease tests.
- Without a gel or separator, Red Top tubes require additional steps to separate the plasma from the cells, which can make the process more time-consuming compared to using SST tubes.
- Healthcare professionals choose Red Top tubes for specific tests that require plasma, as they provide an accurate and uncontaminated sample of blood plasma for testing.
Choosing Between SST and Red Top Tubes
When deciding between SST and Red Top tubes for collecting blood samples in a medical laboratory setting, healthcare professionals must consider the specific tests being conducted and the preferences of the laboratory. Some tests may require serum, while others may require plasma, which will dictate the choice of tube to use. Additionally, healthcare professionals must ensure they are following proper collection and handling procedures to maintain the integrity of the blood samples and produce accurate Test Results.
Key Points to Consider:
- Understand the specific requirements of the tests being conducted to determine whether serum or plasma is needed for accurate results.
- Follow proper collection and handling procedures to ensure the integrity of the blood samples and prevent contamination.
- Consult with laboratory staff or healthcare professionals for guidance on selecting the appropriate tubes for specific tests and procedures.
Conclusion
In the medical laboratory setting in the United States, collecting blood samples in SST tubes and Red Top tubes serves different purposes based on the specific tests being conducted. SST tubes are commonly used for testing blood serum, while Red Top tubes are used for testing blood plasma. The choice between SST and Red Top tubes depends on the requirements of the tests and the preferences of the laboratory. Healthcare professionals must understand the differences in the uses and purposes of these tubes to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results for diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions.
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