What does the abbreviation SST stand for in phlebotomy?

SST stands for Serum Separating Tube, which is a type of tube used in blood collection in phlebotomy. This tube contains a gel that allows for the separation of serum from the blood cells after the sample has been centrifuged. The gel forms a barrier between the serum and the cells, which makes it easier to retrieve the serum for testing without contamination from cellular components. SSTs are commonly used in various laboratory tests that require serum, as they facilitate efficient collection and processing of blood samples.

Understanding the function of SSTs is critical in phlebotomy practice, as selecting the appropriate type of collection tube is vital for obtaining accurate test results.