Hematocrit
Also known as: Packed Cell Volume
Use
Evaluate anemia, blood loss, and state of hydration or suspect polycythemic condition and response to treatment
Special Instructions
It is crucial to invert the lavender-top (EDTA) tube 8 to 10 times immediately after collection to ensure proper mixing and accurate results. Avoid using specimens obtained from tubes filled with anticoagulants other than EDTA, or those that have not been filled to minimum volume requirements, as that may lead to erroneous results.
Limitations
The hematocrit test may show variations in results due to preanalytical factors such as improper mixing, hemolysis, and sample contamination with intravenous fluids. Results may also be affected if the specimen is clotted or if plasma has been removed. Additionally, hematocrit values can be unstable if samples are stored frozen or subjected to freeze-thaw cycles.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Hematology)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 4544-3
- 4544-3
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
Tube fill capacity
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after tube is filled at the time of collection.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; tube not filled with minimum volume; specimen received with plasma removed; improper labeling; transport tubes with whole blood
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 day |
| Refrigerated | 3 days |
| Frozen | Unstable |