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:
Bicarbonate levels are almost always done with other electrolytes to tell whether sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate levels are in balance. They may be measured as part of routine blood testing, or when an imbalance is suspected. Bicarbonate may also be measured when evaluating acid-base balance, to screen for an imbalance, and to monitor a known problem during treatment.
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum (SST or plain tube)
Specimen container adult:
Serum (SST or plain tube)
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5 mL blood
Minimum volume adult:
1 mL blood
Special requirements:
Sample should reach the laboratory ASAP
Sample stability:
Unseparated capped samples: 16 hoursSeparated capped samples:- at 15-25C: 24 hours at 4 to 8C: 24 hours
Availability :
24/7, analysed at RVI and Freeman
Add on test:
Not possible
Reference ranges:
Up to 17 years: 19 – 28 mmol/L
>17 years: 22 – 29 mmol/L
Other info:
Lithium heparin plasma sample also acceptable