Which common hematology tests require quick delivery to the clinical labs?
The following tests must be completed within two hours of specimen collection: • Cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and body fluids for cell count and differential — A time delay can result in cellular degeneration, thus adversely affecting results. • Urinalysis – This includes urine dipstick and microscopic examination. The following test must be completed within four hours of specimen collection: • Coagulation tests – These include prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT). Additional coagulation tests cannot be added to a specimen that has exceeded this time period from collection.
