Handling and Processing of Specimens in SST Red Top Tubes: Guidelines for Accurate Test Results

Summary

• Specimens collected in SST Red Top tubes are commonly used in medical laboratories in the United States for various Diagnostic Tests.
• Proper handling and processing of these specimens are crucial to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results.
• Following the correct procedure for handling and processing SST Red Top tubes is essential to maintain the integrity of the specimen and ensure the quality of the Test Results.

Introduction

In the field of healthcare, accurate and reliable laboratory Test Results are essential for proper diagnosis and treatment of patients. Specimens collected in SST Red Top tubes are commonly used in medical laboratories in the United States for various Diagnostic Tests. It is important to follow the proper procedure for handling and processing these specimens to ensure accurate Test Results.

Specimen collection

When collecting specimens in SST Red Top tubes, it is important to follow these guidelines:

1. Verify patient identification.
2. Use proper Venipuncture technique.
3. Fill the tube to the proper level as indicated on the tube.
4. Invert the tube 5-8 times to ensure proper mixing of the specimen with the Clot Activator and gel separator.

Handling and processing

Transportation

After collection, specimens in SST Red Top tubes should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible. It is important to follow these guidelines:

1. Store the tubes upright to prevent leakage.
2. Avoid exposing the tubes to extreme temperatures.
3. Protect the tubes from light.

Centrifugation

Before processing the specimens, it is important to centrifuge the SST Red Top tubes to separate the serum from the clot and gel separator. Follow these guidelines:

1. Centrifuge the tubes at the recommended speed and time.
2. Use a balanced centrifuge to prevent vibration.
3. Ensure that the tubes are properly labeled to avoid mix-ups.

Aliquoting

After centrifugation, it may be necessary to aliquot the serum for further testing. It is important to follow these guidelines:

1. Use a clean transfer pipette or syringe to aliquot the serum.
2. Label the aliquot tubes with the patient's information and the date and time of collection.
3. Store the aliquot tubes properly to maintain the integrity of the specimens.

Storage

Proper storage of the specimens is crucial to maintain their integrity and ensure accurate Test Results. It is important to follow these guidelines:

1. Store the specimens at the recommended temperature and humidity.
2. Avoid freezing and thawing the specimens multiple times.
3. Use proper specimen containers and labels to prevent contamination and mix-ups.

Conclusion

Proper handling and processing of specimens collected in SST Red Top tubes are essential for ensuring accurate and reliable Test Results in medical laboratories in the United States. By following the correct procedure for specimen collection, transportation, centrifugation, aliquoting, and storage, healthcare professionals can maintain the integrity of the specimens and ensure the quality of the Test Results.

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