CENTRIFUGING SERUM SEPARATOR TUBE (SST)
It is important to properly centrifuge serum separator tube (SST) after a venipuncture collection. Improper collection will cause a delay in result turnaround time or rejection of specimen and a request for recollection.
IMPORTANT:
Do not centrifuge immediately after drawing the blood.
Do not allow the blood to clot with the tube in a horizontal position.
Do not allow the tube to stand more than one hour before centrifuging.
HOW TO PROPERLY CENTRIFUGE SST:
Step 1:Collect the specimen using standard venipuncture
Step 2: Gently invert the tube five (5) times to mix the clot activator with the blood. Avoid vigorous agitation of collected specimen.
Step 3: Allow the tube to clot for 15-30 minutes in a vertical position.
Step 4: Centrifuge the tube for 10-15 minutes at about 1300-1800 xg.
The gel barrier will form, separating the serum from the clot. After centrifugation, the gel should be intact and the cells and serum completely separated. DO NOT re-centrifuge the tube if the barrier is incomplete.
Contact the laboratory if you are having difficulty centrifuging specimens.
