The Key Role of Sst Tubes in Clinical Diagnostic Labs

When it comes to clinical Diagnostic Labs, the use of proper equipment and materials is crucial in ensuring accurate and reliable Test Results. One of the key components that play a vital role in these labs is the Serum Separator Tube (SST). In this article, we will explore the key role of SST tubes in clinical Diagnostic Labs and why they are essential for conducting various tests.

What are SST Tubes?

SST tubes, also known as serum separator tubes or serum Separator Gel tubes, are specialized vacutainer tubes used for collecting and separating blood samples for diagnostic testing. These tubes typically contain a gel separator that forms a barrier between the serum (liquid portion of blood) and the clotting elements after the sample is centrifuged.

Components of SST Tubes:

1. Tube: The tube is made of plastic and comes in various sizes to accommodate different blood volumes.
2. Stopper: The tube is sealed with a color-coded stopper, usually red or gold, depending on the manufacturer.
3. Gel Separator: The gel separator is a clear gel located at the bottom of the tube that separates the serum from the clotting elements in the blood sample.

Key Role of SST Tubes in Clinical Diagnostic Labs

SST tubes play a crucial role in clinical Diagnostic Labs for various reasons. Here are some of the key functions and benefits of using SST tubes:

Accurate Serum Separation:

One of the primary functions of SST tubes is to ensure accurate separation of serum from the blood sample. The gel separator in the tube acts as a barrier between the serum and the clotting elements, allowing for clean and clear separation of the two components after centrifugation. This separation is essential for conducting tests that require serum samples, such as lipid profile, liver function tests, and hormone assays.

Prevention of Hemolysis:

Hemolysis, the rupturing of red blood cells and release of hemoglobin into the serum, can significantly impact the accuracy of Test Results. SST tubes help prevent hemolysis by separating the serum from the red blood cells and clotting factors during centrifugation. This ensures that the serum sample is free from any contaminants, resulting in reliable Test Results.

Convenience and Efficiency:

Using SST tubes for blood collection is convenient and efficient for Healthcare Providers and laboratory staff. The gel separator eliminates the need for manual separation of serum from the blood sample, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. Additionally, the color-coded stoppers make it easy to identify the type of tube and ensure proper handling and processing of the samples.

Sample Stability:

SST tubes help maintain the stability of the serum samples during storage and transportation. The gel separator acts as a physical barrier that prevents the agitation of the serum and minimizes the risk of sample contamination. This ensures that the samples remain viable for testing over an extended period, allowing for accurate and reliable results.

Common Tests Conducted Using SST Tubes

Several Diagnostic Tests require serum samples collected in SST tubes for accurate results. Some of the common tests conducted using SST tubes include:

Lipid Profile:

1. Total cholesterol
2. Triglycerides
3. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
4. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol

Liver Function Tests:

1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
2. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
4. Bilirubin

Hormone Assays:

1. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
2. Cortisol
3. Testosterone
4. Estrogen

Best Practices for Using SST Tubes

To ensure optimal performance and accurate Test Results, it is essential to follow best practices when using SST tubes in clinical Diagnostic Labs. Here are some tips for using SST tubes effectively:

Proper Handling:

Handle SST tubes with care to prevent damage to the gel separator and ensure the integrity of the sample. Avoid shaking or agitating the tubes before or after blood collection, as this can disrupt the separation process and lead to inaccurate results.

Correct Order of Draw:

Follow the recommended order of draw when collecting blood samples in SST tubes to prevent Cross-Contamination and ensure the accuracy of Test Results. Start with non-additive tubes, followed by additive tubes, and finish with SST tubes to minimize the risk of sample contamination.

Appropriate Mixing:

Gently invert the SST tubes several times after blood collection to ensure proper mixing of the sample with the gel separator. Avoid vigorous shaking or mixing, as this can cause hemolysis and affect the quality of the serum sample.

Timely Centrifugation:

Centrifuge the SST tubes promptly after blood collection to ensure proper separation of the serum from the clotting elements. Follow the recommended centrifugation speed and time to prevent sample hemolysis and obtain clear serum samples for testing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SST tubes play a crucial role in clinical Diagnostic Labs by ensuring accurate separation of serum samples for various tests. The gel separator in SST tubes helps prevent hemolysis, maintains sample stability, and enhances the efficiency of laboratory processes. By following best practices for handling and using SST tubes, Healthcare Providers and laboratory staff can ensure reliable and accurate Test Results for patient diagnosis and treatment.

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