Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
The APTR is used to control Unfractionated Heparin therapy. The patients Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) is divided by the laboratory Mean Normal Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (MNAPTT). There is some variation in APTT reagent sensitivity to Heparin and local ranges may vary depending on reagent used, however the general accepted therapeutic range is a ratio of 1.5 – 2.5.
Specimen container paediatric:
Light blue – sodium citrate
Specimen container adult:
Light blue – sodium citrate
Minimum volume paediatric:
1.3mL
Minimum volume adult:
2.7mL
Special requirement :
Tube must be correctly filled to line, to ensure correct ratio of blood to anticoagulant, ensure adequate mixing.
Sample stability:
8 hrs
Transport requirements:
Samples should be transported to lab without delay
Availability:
All times, both sites
Freq analysis:
Continuous
Add on test:
[email protected] (external)
Quality assurance:
UK NEQAS Blood Coagulation
Reference ranges:
1.5 – 2.5
Other info:
For monitoring therapeutic dosing of heparin.