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:
Platelets are responsible for forming the primary haemostatic plug during coagluation and normal platelet function is crucial to this. Platelet function is determined by adding a panel of reagents (agonists) to a suspension of test platelets and measuring the aggregation response of the platelets to the stumuli. The pattern of aggregation seen with the different agonists allows an examination of several different metabolic pathways in the platelet that are required for normal function
Specimen container paediatric:
Light blue – sodium citrate x 4.
Specimen container adult:
Light blue – sodium citrate x 4.
Minimum volume paediatric:
5.4mL
Minimum volume adult:
10.8mL
Special requirements:
Tubes must be correctly filled to line, to ensure correct ratio of blood to anticoagulant, ensure adequate mixing.
Sample stability:
2 hrs
Transport requirements:
Samples should be transported to lab without delay
Freq analysis:
On request
Add on test:
[email protected] (external)
Quality assurance:
UK NEQAS Blood Coagulation (Pilot scheme)
Reference ranges:
Agonists used include:Arachidonic acid ADP. Collagen, Epinephrine, Ristocetin Results will be interpreted by Haematology medical staff.
Factors affecting result:
Time limited test, tests must be completed within 4 hours of venepunture
Other info:
A measure of platelet function with known agonists.