Understanding the Importance of Serum Tubes in Phlebotomy

Summary

• Serum tubes are essential tools used in phlebotomy to collect blood samples for various laboratory tests.
• There are different types of serum tubes available, each color-coded to indicate the specific additives or clot activators used.
• Proper handling and labeling of serum tubes are crucial to ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety.

Introduction

Phlebotomy is a crucial aspect of healthcare that involves the collection of blood samples for various laboratory tests. Serum tubes are a common tool used in phlebotomy to collect blood samples for specific tests that require serum as the primary component. In this article, we will explore what serum tubes are, the different types available, and how they are used in phlebotomy procedures.

What are Serum Tubes?

Serum tubes, also known as serum separator tubes or SSTs, are vacuum blood collection tubes specifically designed to facilitate the separation of serum from whole blood. These tubes typically contain a gel or Clot Activator that helps to separate the serum from the blood cells by forming a barrier during the centrifugation process. Once the blood sample is centrifuged, the serum will be on top of the gel or Clot Activator, making it easy to extract for testing.

Types of Serum Tubes

There are several types of serum tubes available, each color-coded to indicate the specific additives or clot activators used. The most common types of serum tubes include:

1. Red Serum Tubes: These tubes do not contain any additives or clot activators and are used for general chemistry tests.
2. Gold Serum Tubes: Also known as SST tubes, these tubes contain a gel separator and Clot Activator for use in chemistry tests, hormone assays, and other blood tests that require serum.
3. Tiger Top Serum Tubes: These tubes have a red-gray or gold-black stopper and contain a gel separator and Clot Activator. They are typically used for chemistry tests that require serum.
4. Orange Serum Tubes: These tubes are designed for trace element testing and do not contain any gel separator or clot activators.

How are Serum Tubes Used in Phlebotomy?

When performing a phlebotomy procedure using serum tubes, it is essential to follow proper protocol to ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety. The following steps are typically involved in using serum tubes in phlebotomy:

1. Prepare the necessary equipment, including the appropriate serum tubes based on the tests ordered.
2. Identify the patient and explain the procedure to them, ensuring their consent before proceeding.
3. Select a suitable vein for blood collection, typically in the arm or hand.
4. Clean the puncture site with an alcohol swab and apply a Tourniquet to help locate the vein.
5. Perform the Venipuncture using a sterile needle attached to a vacuum tube holder, collecting the necessary amount of blood into the serum tube.
6. Remove the Tourniquet and needle, applying pressure to the puncture site to stop any bleeding.
7. Label the serum tube accurately with the patient's information, date, time of collection, and any other required details.
8. Invert the tube gently to mix the blood with the gel separator or Clot Activator, ensuring proper clot formation during centrifugation.
9. Place the serum tube in a biohazard bag or container for transport to the laboratory, following proper safety protocols.
10. Document the procedure in the patient's medical records, including the tests ordered and any complications or issues encountered during the phlebotomy process.

Conclusion

Serum tubes play a vital role in phlebotomy by facilitating the collection of blood samples for various laboratory tests that require serum. Understanding the different types of serum tubes available, their specific uses, and proper handling procedures is essential for phlebotomists to ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety. By following proper phlebotomy protocols and guidelines, Healthcare Providers can effectively collect and analyze blood samples to diagnose and treat medical conditions effectively.

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