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HelpTEST ID ABG BLOOD GAS, ARTERIAL (ABG)
Performing Laboratory
NRLS-Core Chemistry
Specimen Type
ABG syringe-Whole Blood
Specimen Required
Container/Tube:
Preferred: Sample devices containing lithium heparin (preferably, dry lithium heparin, contained in the ABG syringe set).
Acceptable: none
Specimen Volume: 0.6 mL
Collection Instructions:
Expel air from the syringe and cap it immediately after obtaining the sample.
Do not use clay or cork to cap the syringe.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| ABG syringe-Whole blood | Ambient (preferred) | 30 minutes |
| Refrigerated | 30 minutes |
Specimens analyzed > 30 minutes of collection are reported with the following comment: "ABG specimen analyzed > 30 minutes after collection. Specimen stability limits have been exceeded. Interpret results with caution. Recommend reorder for recollection."
Reference Values
An interpretive report will be provided
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Report Available
Same day/1 day