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HelpTest Code LAB59 Chloride Level
Clinical System Name
Chloride Level
Synonyms
LAB59
Cl - Blood (Chloride - 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, or Heparinized Syringe
Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL
Note: Method is affected by EDTA and prolonged exposure to RBCs. Specimen must be spun and aliquot within 2 hours. Not affected by Na, Li or Ammon. heparin.
Processing Instructions
Reject due to: Age of specimen, incorrect specimen collection (No EDTA).
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 |
≤ 7 d |
| Serum or Plasma | 2-8 C |
≤ 28 d |
| Serum or Plasma | -20 C or -70 C |
≤ 365 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
82435
Methodology
Method: Potentiometric method by Vitros 4600
Analytical Volume: 0.05 mL serum or plasma
Limitation: Potassium Bromide causes positive interference with assays that use direct or indirect ion selective electrodes.
Reference Range
| Age | mEq/L |
| <1 y | 96 - 110 |
| 1 y - adult | 96 - 109 |
Description
Chloride is increased in dehydration, renal tubular acidosis (hyperchloremia metabolic acidosis), and in excessive infusion of isotonic saline. Chloride is decreased in overhydration, chronic respiratory acidosis, salt-losing nephritis, metabolic alkalosis, and congestive heart failure.
Critical Values
≤ 70 mEq/L
≥ 130 mEq/L