Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Serum
- Li Hep Plasma
Specimen Transport
Not applicable
Sample Processing in Laboratory
Usual
Sample Preparation
Centrifuge sample on arrival. Samples must be analysed immediatley. Avoid haemolysed samples.
Turnaround Time
5 HoursSample Stability
Samples are stable for at least 1 hour at 4°C.
Bicarbonate concentration in uncapped tubes will decrease by approximately 4 mmol/L after 1 hour. Unopened samples are stable for several days if stored refrigerated.
Bicarbonate
General Information
Serum/Plasma bicarbonate measurements, combined with pH measurement are frequently used to diagnose and treat irregularities in acid-base imbalance. Bicarbonate is a major component of the acid-base buffering system in the circulation. Changes in bicarbonate concentration reflect both acute and chronic disorders in acid-base metabolism.
Patient Preparation
None
Notes
None Given
Reference Range
Neonate - 16yrs 19-28 mmol/L
Adult 22-29 mmol/L
(Source : Pathology Harmony Recommendations)
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
-
EQA Status:
WEQAS and RIQAS