Test Code LAB77 Blood Gases, Venous, Cord
Reporting Title
Blood Gas Venous, Cord
Methodology
Radiometer Analyzer
Performing Laboratory
OhioHealth Laboratory Services-GMC, DH, DMH,RMH, PMH and MGH Core Laboratory.
GMH, MH, HMH, PMH and OBH Respiratory Department.
Specimen Requirements
Proper specimen collection is imperative. Cord blood gases are extremely labile and significant changes in pH and base excess can occur within 60 seconds of delivery. To mitigate this, the current recommendation is that the cord be double-clamped immediately after delivery of the baby and the cord blood gas specimen (venous) be obtained from segment between clamps as soon as possible.
Draw a minimum of 0.5 mL of blood in a 1-mL heparinized syringe. Expel any air bubbles. Use gauze or tissue to absorb the excess blood. Cap syringe and mix by rolling syringe between palms for 15 seconds. Transport to the laboratory immediately. Specimen must be received in the laboratory within 30 minutes of draw.
Note: Label syringe with patient’s name (first and last) and date and actual time of draw.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Refrigerate/Ambient/Frozen NO
Reference Values
pCO2: 23.3-49.2 mm Hg
pO2: 15-48 mm Hg
HCO3: 15.9-24.7 mmol/L
O2 Saturation: none
pH: 7.24-7.49
Critical value <7.0
Base Excess -2.0; +2.0 Critical <-16.0; >+16.0
Alerting category: Always called within 1 hour
Note: A pH of <7.0 is indicative of cardiopulmonary compromise only if accompanied by other clinical parameters, such as an Apgar of <5.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday, continuously
Test Classification and CPT Coding
82805