Specimen Requirements

Separated specimens may be stored for up to 8 hours at room temperature or for up to 7 days at 2 - 8°C.

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
 
PlasmaDraw blood in a green-top (lithium heparin) plasma gel tube(s). Spin down and send 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma refrigerated.
Note:  1. Plasma should be separated from blood cells as soon as possible. Prolonged contact with the clot may cause increased potassium values.

2. Indicate plasma on request form.
3. Label specimen appropriately (plasma).
 
Serum
Draw blood in a serum gel tube(s). Spin down and send 1 mL of serum refrigerated.
Note:  1. Serum should be separated from blood cells as soon as possible. Prolonged contact with the clot may cause 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.