* Iron Mnemonic IRON Synonym FE Specimen Collection Requirements Patient Preparation The preferred specimen is taken in the morning from patients who have fasted at least 8 hours. Iron values decrease by 30% during the course of the day. The patient should not take iron supplements at least 24 hours before blood is drawn. Collect Serum or Plasma, one 5.0 mL gold (SST), 7.0 mL red, or 3.0 mL mint green (lithium heparin, PST) top tube View image for Supply Item Number - 101235 or 101192 Handling Allow serum to completely clot at room temperature (minimum: 30 minutes). Centrifuge and separate serum or plasma from cells ASAP. Avoid contamination with environmental iron. Use only iron-free collection tubes, pipets and test tubes. Preferred Volume 1.0 mL Minimum Volume 0.25 mL, Serum/Plasma, (Whole blood 0.60 mL minimum draw) Transport Refrigerated (2-8°C) Rejection Criteria Grossly hemolyzed specimens Stability AFTER SEPARATION FROM CELLS: Room Temperature (18-26°C): 4 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (at or below -20°C): 1 month Testing Information Performed 7 day/week Reported 24 hours Method Colorimetry Reference Values Reference Values For age related ranges see Chemistry Age Related Reference Ranges and Critical Values. Critical Values For critical age related ranges see Chemistry Age Related Reference Ranges and Critical Values. CPT Codes 83540 Last Updated: Saturday, January 30, 2021 01:56:12 AM Client Services: 503-413-1234