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Test Code LAB29 Lithium Level

Important Note

No add-ons after 8 hours of collection if specimen is still on gel separator.

 

Lt. Green/Li Heparin Microtainers contain lithium heparin and are NOT acceptable.

Clinical System Name

Lithium Level

Synonyms

LI

Sample Requirements

Specimen: Whole Blood

Container(s): Gold SST, Dark Green/Sodium Heparin, Red, Lavender/EDTA, Gold Microtainer, Lavender/EDTA Microtainer

Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL

Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL

 

Note: Draw specimen just before next dose.

Processing Instructions

Reject due to: Age of specimen, incorrect specimen collection (No Lt. Green/Li Heparin Microtainers).

Spin: Y

Aliquot: Y 

Storage location: Core 5 Chemistry Refrigerator

 

Off-site collection:  If using a green top tube, ensure that it does not contain lithium heparin (sodium heparin OK). Draw specimen just before next dose. 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

≤ 8 h
Serum or Plasma 2-8 C

≤ 24 h
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 (Client Services)

CPT Codes

80178

Methodology

Method: Colorimetric method by Vitros 4600

Analytical Volume: 0.02 mL + 0.03 mL dead space

Reference Range

Therapeutic: 0.5 - 1.5 mEq/L

Critical Values

≥ 1.9  mEq/L