Understanding the Importance of SST Tubes in Clinical Laboratory Testing
Summary
- SST stands for Serum Separator Tube
- This type of tube is commonly used in clinical labs for blood collection and testing
- The SST Tube contains a gel that separates serum from blood cells, making it easier for medical professionals to analyze the sample
Introduction
Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from a patient for various medical tests and procedures. One important abbreviation that is commonly used in the context of phlebotomy in the United States is "SST". But what does SST stand for? In this article, we will explore the meaning of SST and its significance in the field of healthcare, clinical labs, and hospitals.
What does SST stand for?
SST stands for Serum Separator Tube. These tubes are a type of blood collection tube that is used to collect blood samples for various medical tests. SST tubes are typically made of plastic and come in different sizes, depending on the volume of blood needed for testing.
How does an SST Tube work?
The SST Tube contains a gel separator that is inserted between the blood sample and the Clot Activator or Anticoagulant inside the tube. When blood is collected into the tube, the gel separator forms a barrier between the serum and the blood cells. As the sample sits, the gel separator causes the serum to separate and rise to the top of the tube, while the blood cells sink to the bottom.
This separation process makes it easier for healthcare professionals and laboratory technicians to collect the serum for testing without having to centrifuge the sample. The gel separator ensures that the serum remains stable and uncontaminated, which is crucial for accurate Test Results.
Why are SST tubes used?
SST tubes are commonly used in clinical labs and hospitals for a variety of reasons:
- Efficiency: SST tubes eliminate the need for immediate centrifugation of blood samples, saving time and resources for Healthcare Providers.
- Accuracy: The gel separator in SST tubes ensures that the serum is separated from blood cells, reducing the risk of sample contamination and inaccurate Test Results.
- Convenience: Using SST tubes simplifies the blood collection process for phlebotomists and medical staff, making it easier to handle and transport samples for testing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SST stands for Serum Separator Tube, and it is an essential component in the field of phlebotomy and clinical laboratory testing in the United States. SST tubes play a crucial role in blood collection and testing by providing a convenient and efficient way to separate serum from blood cells for accurate diagnostic results. Healthcare professionals rely on SST tubes for their reliability, accuracy, and ease of use in a variety of medical settings.
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