Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
 
Plasma

Draw blood in a green-top (lithium heparin) plasma gel tube(s). (Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.) Spin down and send 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma refrigerated. Specimen should be analyzed as soon as possible after draw and centrifugation.
Note:  1. Plasma should be separated from blood cells as soon as possible. Prolonged contact with the clot may cause lower calcium values and increased potassium values.

2. Indicate plasma on request form.
3. Label specimen appropriately (plasma).
 
Serum
Draw blood in a serum gel tube(s). (Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.) Spin down and send 1 mL of serum refrigerated. Specimen should be analyzed as soon as possible after draw and centrifugation.

Note:  1. Serum should be separated from blood cells as soon as possible. Prolonged contact with the clot may cause lower calcium values and increased potassium values.

2. Indicate serum on request form.
3. Label specimen appropriately (serum).

Unspun specimens must be transported at ambient temperature and arrive to the laboratory within one hour of draw.