Sodium citrate tube (blue top)
For Neonates we can prepare half volume paediatric tubes, which will require 0.65 mL blood (filled to the black line). Please contact the Coagulation Section on extension 2916 before 1600 weekdays if you require these tubes.
The tube must be filled correctly (filled to line on tube).
Samples should be received in the laboratory on the same day.
Haemolysed or clotted samples cannot be tested. To avoid haemolysis and clotted samples mix tube gently by inversion, do not shake.
Patients on anticoagulants will have abnormal results
(Adult)
In house
The prothrombin time is performed as part of the Coagulation Screen (Diagnostic).
Yes
1 hr – STAT samples
4 hr – routine samples
Clinical advice is available from the Haematology Medical team (contact RD&E switchboard on 01392 411611)
Specimen Labelling Procedure