Gold serum separator (SST) tube

• Preferred draw time is 8 - 12 hours after the last dose
• Immediately following collection, thoroughly mix sample by gently inverting 5 times

1. Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
2. Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Dk green Sodium heparin (Na hep), no gel

Immediately following collection, mix sample thoroughly by gently inverting 5 - 10 times, to prevent clotting

1. Spin
2. Transfer plasma to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labelled as the appropriate plasma type, within two (2) hours of sample collection

False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL)

Refrigerated (preferred) - 7 days

Ambient - 24 hours

Frozen - 6 months

• Improper labels (unlabeled or mislabeled)
• Hemolysis (some procedures)
• Improper anticoagulant or ratio
  • Li Heparin plasma is not acceptable
• Delay in transport
• Improper storage temperature affecting results
• Inappropriate timing of collection
• Improper container
• Leaking container resulting in compromised specimen
• Quantity not sufficient (QNS)

Colorimetric

0.6 - 1.2 mmol/L

> 1.5 mmol/L