Within 1 day
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Whole blood
Tube fill capacity
0.5 mL (500 µL for pediatric microtainer capillary tubes; fill tube to capacity.) (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after tube is filled at the time of collection.
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Temperature
Period
Room temperature
1 day
Refrigerated
3 days
Frozen
Unstable
Freeze/thaw cycles
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; tube not filled with minimum volume; specimen received with plasma removed; improper labeling; transport tubes with whole blood
Evaluate anemia, blood loss, and state of hydration or suspect polycythemic condition and response to treatment
Automated cell counter
