Mechanical
Prothrombin Time + International Normalized Ratio (INR)
Plasma
RCHSD Coagulation
LAB320
As received
4 hrs
1 hr
1.8mL or 2.7 mL Sodium Citrate
Light Blue (Sodium Citrate)
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. 5. Stability - Specimens are stable for 24 hours following collection.6. If patient's hematocrit is greater than 55%, contact hematology lab to request a light blue tube with adjusted anticoagulant amount.
Ambient-Only
Room Temp: 24 hrs
Underfilled or overfilled tubes, clotted, refrigerated specimens
1.8 ml or 2.7 ml in light blue top
1.8 ml light blue top
Centrifuge within one hour of collection
Prothrombin time and INR
85610
12-08-17
JZ