Methodology
Chromogenic Assay
Synonyms
AT III, AT3, Antithrombin III
Specimen Type
Plasma
Performing Lab
RCHSD Coag
Epic ID
LAB759A
Lab Test Days
Daily; PM Shift
Standard TAT
Batch Testing
Stat TAT
Batch Testing
Collection Information
Specimen Required
1.8-2.7 mL Blood
Container Type
Light Blue (Sodium Citrate)
Collection Instructions
1. The preferred method of specimen collection for coagulation studies is a properly performed VENIPUNCTURE.The specimen may be collected directly into 1.8 or 2.7 mL vacutainer or into a syringe and then transferred immediately into a 1.8 or 2.7 mL vacutainer. 2. The vacutainer tube MUST contain the EXACT amount of blood. It is essential that LT blue top tubes are PROPERLY FILLED. Volume is CRITICAL and the blood (9 parts) to liquid anticoagulant (1 part) must remain intact for correct results. 3. The specimen should be transported to the Laboratory within one hour of collection. 4. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPECIMENS COLLECTED FROM A LINE: If collecting specimens for coagulation studies from an indwelling line that may contain heparin, it is recommended that the line should be flushed with 5 mL of saline and the first 5 mL of blood or 6-times the line volume (dead space volume of the catheter) be drawn off and discarded before the coagulation tube is filled. For those samples collected from a normal saline lock (capped off venous port) twice the dead space volume of the catheter and extension set should be discarded.
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate-OK/Frozen-OK/Ambient-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: 4 hours following collection
Rejection Criteria
Underfilled or overfilled tubes, clotted, time of collection over 4 hours.
Test Volume Required
1 mL Platelet-Poor Plasma
Minimum Test Volume
0.5 mL Platelet-Poor Plasma
Processing Instructions
Give to Hematology CLS for processing.
Comments
In the event of instrument malfunction specimens will be sent to USCD Special Coag for testing. If patient's hematocrit is greater than 55%, contact hematology lab to request a light blue tube with adjusted anticoagulant amount.
Revised
07-05-18
Initials
SL