What type of tube is used to collect specimens that require whole blood or plasma?

The use of a PST (Plasma Separator Tube) is essential for collecting specimens that require whole blood or plasma. This type of tube contains a gel that separates the serum or plasma from the cellular components during centrifugation. When the tube is spun in a centrifuge, the gel forms a barrier between the plasma or serum and the blood cells, allowing for the collection of the liquid component without the contamination of cells.

The mint green color designation for the PST tube also indicates the presence of lithium heparin as the anticoagulant, which is effective for preserving the sample for various tests that rely on plasma. In laboratory settings, it is crucial to utilize the correct type of collection tube to ensure the integrity and reliability of the test results.

While the other mentioned tubes may serve different purposes, they are not specifically designed for whole blood or plasma collection in the same way that a PST does. This specificity is crucial for accurate sample processing and analysis in a clinical environment.