Heparin SST (Serum Separator Tube) Blood Collection Tubes with a clot activator and separator gel are used to collect and process blood samples for clinical chemistry analysis. Typically, SST tubes contain a clot activator and separator gel, but do not typically include heparin. Instead, tubes with a clot activator and separator gel are used to facilitate clot formation and separate serum from the blood.
These tubes are ideal for:
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Serum Chemistry Tests: Assessing metabolic and organ function.
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Immunoassays: Analyzing hormones, proteins, and other analytes.
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Serology: Detecting antibodies and antigens.
The clot activator promotes rapid clotting, while the separator gel forms a barrier between the serum and blood cells after centrifugation, ensuring clear separation for accurate testing. If you encountered a tube labeled with both heparin and SST elements, clarifying with the manufacturer or laboratory reference is advisable, as these features are generally distinct.
SST Blood Collection Tubes are specialized tubes used for collecting and storing blood samples for laboratory testing. These particular tubes are manufactured by BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) and are part of their Vacutainer Plus line of products. The tubes are 3.5 mL in volume and measure 13mm in diameter and 75mm in length. They are equipped with a Hemogard Closure, which is a safety feature that helps prevent needlestick injuries. The tubes contain both a clot activator and a gel separator additive. The clot activator helps the blood to clot faster, while the gel separator helps to separate the serum from the blood cells during centrifugation. This allows for a clear and clean separation of the components, which is important for accurate laboratory testing. The tubes are typically used for chemistry and immunology tests that require serum as a sample.
What is an SST Transport Tube
The SST is Serum Separation Transport and the Vacutainer version contains double the amount of gel in comparison to BD regular SST tubes.
BD SST Tubes are intended for collecting specimen in physician laboratories and/or remote station and require transport to a laboratory for serum determinations and analysis for the following:
- Chemistry Testing
- Blood Donor Screening
- Infectious Disease Testing
The Purpose of the Silica Coating & Polymer Gel
SST Tubes are sterile and contain a spray-coated silica and polymer gel additive. The gel is used to separate the serum to maintain the quality of the sample while in transport. Silica particles coat the tube and make the inside walls appear cloudy. These particles are the clot activator. It is recommended to invert the tube after filling to ensure the sample is adequately mixed with the clot activator for optimal performance.
Closure Types/Color
The SST Blood Tube is available in a conventional tube stopper (Red/Grey) or a BD Vacutainer® Hemogard™ Tube Closure (Gold) which prevents contact with the blood on the stopper and rim so there isn't blood splatter.
- Color-Coded Stopper/Closure
- Break-Resistant Plastic Tube
- Safe and Efficient
- Decreases Turnaround Time
- Hemogard Closure Shields Prevents Contact with Blood
- Tube Specifically Prepared for Serum Determination
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: (BD) Becton Dickinson Tube Material: Plastic
- Tube Type: Serum Tube
- Coating: Silicone
- Additive: Gel Separator/Clot Activator
- Label Type: Paper
- Sterile: Yes
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