Test Code LAB47 Ammonia
Additional Codes
NH3
Collection:
Specimen: Blood
Preferred: Lt Green w/ Gel - Li Hep
Specimen Volume: 5 mL; Minimum 1.5 mL
Pediatric Collection:
One Lt Green w/ Gel - Li Hep microtainer filled to 600 uL.
Hemolyzed samples are unacceptable and will be cancelled.
Stability:
Once plasma is separated from cells:
Refrigerated: 2 Hours
Frozen: 2 Weeks
Turnaround Time (TAT):
STAT/Routine: 1 HOUR
Test Availability:
Daily / 24 Hours / Available STAT
Performing Laboratory Section:
Chemistry / UMC MAIN LABORATORY
Reference Interval:
18 - 72 µmol/L
Interpretive Data:
Hemolyzed specimens may falsely increase ammonia results.
Special Collection Requirements:
Tube must be filled completely and tightly stoppered. Specimen must be kept on ice and delivered to the laboratory within 15 minutes of collection.
If the specimen cannot be transported to the lab within 15 minutes of collection, centrifuge, pour off plasma and freeze. Transport specimen on dry ice.