Sodium

Label Mnemonic:	NA
Epic code:	LAB122
Order form:	Laboratory Requisition
Supply order:	Supply Order Form
Billing:	Billing Policies
CPT code:	84295

Specimen(s):

Plasma

Collection Medium:

Plasma Separator Tube 4.5 mL

Alternate Collection Media:

Call laboratory for additional acceptable specimen collection containers.

Minimum:

3 mL whole blood in light green top tube or ONE Microtainer^® for pediatric patients.

Rejection Criteria:

Sodium heparin is not acceptable (elevates Na)

Testing Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Turn Around Time:

1 hour (upon receipt in laboratory)

Reference Range:

135-145 mEq/L.

Pediatric Reference Ranges:

Age        Range    Units
Premature  130-140  mEq/L

Critical value: <120 mEq/L and >160 mEq/L

Test Limitations:

Patients over a wide anion gap range demonstrated no significant sodium bias.

Methodology:

Ion Selective Electrode

Sample Processing:

Centrifuge at a speed and time necessary to get barrier separation of plasma/serum and cells within 1 hour of collection. Send specimen in original tube. Do Not transfer to another tube.
Each sample must be labeled with at least TWO full patient identifiers (First/Last Name & DOB are sufficient for non-UIHC affiliated clients) to avoid sample rejection/delays.

Sample Storage:

Refrigerate.

Transport Instructions:

Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place completed requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.