[Expert Solution]: #69: What is the difference between SST…

Question #69: What is the difference between SST and PST? (Check all answers that apply) The PSTTM tube is used for STAT general chemistry orders and the SSTTM tube is used for more routine chemistry blood tests. The blood sample in an SSTTM tube has to clot before the serum can be used. This usually takes about 30 minutes. The PSTTM tube offers a whole blood specimen that can be used almost immediately, which is why it is used for STAT orders. The Plasma Separator Tube, also referred to as PSTTM, contains lithium heparin and plasma separator gel; whereas, the Serum Separator Tube, also referred to as SSTTM, contains a clot activator and a serum separator gel.