8 hours room temperature 5 days refrigerated 2 months frozen
Transport Temperature
Frozen
Collection Instructions
Allow SST to clot in an upright position for at least 30 minutes, then centrifuge sample within 2 hours of collection. Transfer serum to a plastic transport tube. Freeze. Patient must be fasting overnight prior to collection. Record patient height and weight. When multiple tests are ordered, submit separate tube for this test.
Alternative Specimen
1.5 mL serum from a plain red top tube. 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. Freeze. Patient must be fasting overnight prior to collection. Record patient height and weight. When multiple tests are ordered, submit separate tube for this test.