Sodium, Plasma or Serum
Also known as: NA
Use
The Sodium, Plasma or Serum test is used to measure the concentration of sodium in the blood. Sodium is an essential electrolyte that helps maintain water balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Abnormal sodium levels can indicate various health issues such as dehydration, kidney problems, adrenal gland disorders, and conditions affecting the antidiuretic hormone. This test helps in diagnosing and monitoring conditions like diabetes insipidus, hypopituitarism, and electrolyte imbalances.
Special Instructions
Specimens must be collected in a plasma separator tube or serum separator tube. Transfer 1 mL of serum or plasma to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube with a minimum volume of 0.2 mL. Ensure proper clotting of the serum tube at room temperature before separation from cells, which must occur within two hours of collection.
Limitations
This test may not be suitable for samples containing sodium citrate, potassium oxalate, or sodium fluoride as these can affect the results. Body fluid and urine samples should be tested with specific ARUP tests for these specimen types. Improper specimen handling, such as delays in processing or incorrect storage temperatures, can lead to inaccurate results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2951-2
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in a plasma separator tube. Allow serum tube to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum or plasma from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated storage is required for specimen transport.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected in potassium oxalate, sodium citrate, or sodium fluoride. Body fluid or urine specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 weeks |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 6 months |