What is the purpose of serum separator tubes (SST)?

Serum separator tubes (SST) serve a specific purpose in laboratory settings, primarily by facilitating the separation of serum from blood cells after the sample has been centrifuged. This separation is crucial for many diagnostic tests because it allows clinicians to analyze the serum, which contains a variety of substances, including electrolytes, hormones, and proteins, without interference from cellular components.

The SST typically contains a gel barrier that forms during centrifugation, effectively isolating the serum on top of the cells. This makes it easier to extract a clean serum sample for testing.

The other options focus on different aspects. Preserving whole blood, increasing serum volume, or enhancing coagulation do not directly relate to the primary function of serum separator tubes, which is specifically designed for separating serum post-centrifugation. Therefore, the correct understanding of SST's purpose lies in its ability to facilitate the separation process efficiently, ensuring accurate and reliable laboratory results.