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HelpTest Code LAB122 Sodium Level
Clinical System Name
Sodium Level
Synonyms
NA
LAB122
Sample Requirements
Specimen: Whole Blood
Container(s): Lt. Green/Mint Top Lithium Heparin, Lt. Green/Lithium Heparin Microtainer, Gold SST, Gold Microtainer, Dark Green/Sodium Heparin, Red, or Heparinized Syringe
Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL
Notes: Method is affected by moderate to marked lipemia, line dilution, or contamination.
Processing Instructions
Reject due to: Insufficient Quantity, Age of Specimen
Spin: Y
Aliquot: Y
Storage location: Core 5 Chemistry Refrigerator
Off-site collection: Specimen should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Spin blood and transfer serum or plasma to plastic tube and refrigerate or freeze.
Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Serum or Plasma | RT |
≤ 4 d |
| Serum or Plasma | 2-8 C |
≤ 7 d |
| Serum or Plasma | -20 C or -70 C |
≤ 180 d |
Availability
| STAT | Performed | TAT |
|---|---|---|
| Y | 24/7 | 1 h |
Performing Laboratory
Seattle Children's Laboratory
Department
Department: Core Chemistry
Phone Number: 206-987-2617
CPT Codes
84295
Methodology
Method: Potentiometric method by Vitros 4600
Analytical Volume: 0.02 mL + 0.03 mL dead space
Reference Range
| Age | mEq/L | Critical Levels |
| 0 - 1 w | 132 - 142 |
≤ 124 or ≥ 160 |
| 1 w - Adult | 135 - 145 |
≤ 124 or ≥ 160 |
Description
Sodium is the major cation of extracellular fluids. The kidneys regulate sodium content of the body. Low sodium levels may be caused by excessive urine loss, diarrhea, Addison’s disease, and renal tubular disease. High sodium levels may occur in severe dehydration, some types of brain injury, diabetic coma, and excessive intake of sodium salts.
Critical Values
≤ 124 mmol/L
≥ 160 mmol/L