Specimen Requirements

Serum or Plasma

Container: Red top tube (preferred)

Collection: 1 mL (minimum 0.5 mL)

1. Allow specimen to clot completely if  a serum tube (SST) was used.
2. DOUBLE SPIN SPECIMEN.
3. 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.
4. Properly label tube with patient's name, DOB, requisition number and type of tube, i.e. RED.

Alternate Specimens: SST or Green top Lithium Heparin tube