Samples collected in separator tubes Hemolysis Gross lipemia Icterus
Reference Range(s)
Negative
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen
Plain red top tube
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL serum
Sample Stability
2 days room temperature 2 weeks refrigerated 2 weeks frozen
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated
Collection Instructions
Allow sample to clot in an upright position for at least 60 minutes, then centrifuge sample and transfer serum to a plastic transport tube within 2 hours of collection. Clearly label tube as serum from a plain red top tube. Refrigerate.
Alternative Specimen
1 mL EDTA (lavender top), citrate (light blue top) or oxalate (black top) plasma. Centrifuge sample and separate plasma from cells immediately. Transfer plasma to a plastic transport tube. Clearly label tube as EDTA, citrate or oxalate plasma. Refrigerate.