Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Preferred:

Heparinized Syringe

Draw 2 mL of blood in a 3-mL heparinized syringe or 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 the syringe immediately and mix by rolling the syringe between the 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.

Alternate:

VACUTAINER®

Draw a full, short dark green-top (sodium heparin) tube or a tall dark green top tube (lithium heparin) (Gel tube is not acceptable.) Mix by gently inverting 8 times. Transport to laboratory immediately.   Specimen must be received in the laboratory within 30 minutes of draw. 

Note:  Label tube with patient’s name (first and last) and date and actual time of draw.