Test Code N.TP PROTEIN, TOTAL
Methodology
Automated Chemistry Analyzer
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Serum or Plasma
Container/Tube: SST or Lithium Heparin
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum 0.5)
Collection Instructions: 
- Allow specimen to clot completely if a serum tube (SST) was used.
 - Separate serum (SST) or plasma (Lithium Heparin) from cells within 24 hours and transport refrigerated. If red top tube is collected, separate serum from cells within 2 hours and place in separate plastic tube.
 - Properly label tube with patient's name, DOB, requisition number and type of tube, i.e. LiHep or NaHep etc.
 
Specimen Rejection
1. Exceeds stability requirements
2. Unlabeled/mislabeled
Maximum Laboratory Time
24 hours
Specimen Transport/Stability
Refrigerated: 24 hours on gel, 6 days poured off
Test Classification and CPT Coding
84155
Day(s) Test Set Up
Daily
Reference Ranges
| Protein, Total | gm/dL | 
| Newborn | 4.6 - 7.0 | 
| 3 mos | 5.1 - 7.3 | 
| 1 yr | 5.6 - 7.5 | 
| 4 yrs & above | 6.4 - 8.3 |