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Test Code CAI Calcium, Ionized

Important Note

Centrifuge and send an unopened SST tube to the laboratory; if the tube has been opened the specimen will be rejected. To ensure testing will be performed please do the following:

1. Send a separate SST tube for ionized calcium.

2. Place a label over the top of the tube and note on the label: Ionized Calcium, DO NOT OPEN.

Explanation: Exposure of the specimen to room air causes a loss of CO2 into the atmosphere. This can change the pH of the specimen and will invalidate the testing.

Performing Laboratory

Hunterdon Medical Center Laboratory

Useful For

Assessing calcium status during rapid blood transfusion and in critically ill patients.

Total calcium remains the first line test in the evaluation of abnormal calcium values.

Specimen Requirements

 

Container/Tube SST- Unopened
Specimen Volume 3.0 mL
Minimum  Volume 1.0 mL

 

Specimen Type

Serum

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient

Specimen Stability

Once cap is removed from the specimen testing must be performed immediately. Ionized Calcium cannot be added to a previously collected specimen.

Day(s) Test Set up

Monday through Sunday

Reference Values

4.5-5.4 mg/dL

Methodology

Ion Selective Electrode

CPT Code

82330

Loinc Code

17864-0