Specimen Collection Guidelines
Accurate test results are the result of the entire process of patient preparation, specimen collection, handling and transportation, as well as performance of test procedures and the interpretation and reporting of results. Specific specimen requirements for each determination, including sample size, are provided in the on-line Laboratory Test Table.
Quantity Requirement Guidelines
As a general rule the volume of blood drawn should be equal to 2.5 times the amount of serum or plasma required. For example, if 2 mL of serum is needed, it will require 2 X 2.5 or 5 mL of whole blood. It is desirable to provide a slight excess of blood rather than too little. For example, if 6 mL of blood is indicated, please fill a 7 mL tube in preference to a 5 mL. For pediatric patients, refer to the pediatric minimum volumes as indicated for the test.
Blood Conservation
If the amount of specimen to be collected is large or may pose a risk of blood loss to the patient, contact Client Services 503-413-1234 or Toll Free 1-877-270-5566 so that we may help reduce the amount to minimums needed for essential testing.
Clinician Information
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Patient Instruction Sheets
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