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Test Code LAB55 Carbon Dioxide, Total

Clinical System Name

Carbon Dioxide, Total

Synonyms

LAB55

Bicarbonate (HCO3) Blood
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)
CO2 measured
HCO 3 - Blood

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

Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL

Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL

 

Note: Red or Gold SST tubes acceptable but not preferred. Use Dark Green/Sodium Heparin or Lt. Green/Li Heparin Microtainer for fastest results. Method is affected by exposure to air (decreases CO2 value), prolonged exposure to RBC's (increases value), and EDTA. Not affected by moderate hemolysis, icterus, or any type of heparin (Na, Li, or ammon). The TCO2 test should not be cancelled as a duplicate because it is not included in our blood gas panels.

Processing Instructions

Reject due to: 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. Deliver to Lab within 24 hours.

Stability

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Serum or Plasma RT

≤ 24 h
Serum or Plasma 2-8 C

≤ 3 d
Serum or Plasma -20 C or -70 C

≤ 30 d

Availability

STAT Performed TAT
Y 24/7 1 h

Performing Laboratory

Seattle Children's Laboratory    

Department

Department:  Chemistry - Core

Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)

CPT Codes

82374

Methodology

Method: Enzymatic Endpoint by Vitros 4600

Analytical Volume: 0.05 mL

 

 

 

Reference Range

All Ages:

19 - 31 mEq/L

 

Reference range updated 10/10/2023.

Critical Values

≤ 10 mEq/L

≥ 40 mEq/L