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:
Digoxin is widely prescribed for the treatment of congestive heart failure and various disturbances of cardiac rhythm. Used in the management of chronic cardiac failure where the dominant problem is systolic dysfunction.
Its therapeutic benefit is greatest in patients with ventricular dilatation.
Specifically indicated where cardiac failure is accompanied by atrial fibrillation
Used in the management of certain supraventricular arrhythmias, particularly chronic atrial flutter and fibrillation.
Therapeutic use of digoxin improves the strength of myocardial contraction and results in the beneficial effects of increased cardiac output, decreased heart size, decreased venous pressure, and decreased blood volume.
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 be taken at least 6 hours post dose.
Sample stability:
Before separation: UnknownAfter separation:at +15° to +25°C: 2 weeks
at +2° to +8°C: 3 months
at -20°C: 6 months
Reference ranges:
Therapeutic range: 0.5 – 1.0 µg/L
Other info:
Lithium heparin plasma sample also acceptable