Test Code ICA Ionized Calcium, Whole Blood/Serum/Plasma
Specimen Volume
1.0 mL
Preferred Specimen
For Inpatients: Green No Gel (Whole Blood) 3.0 mL, dark green top
For Outpatients: Gold (SST) (Serum)
Alternate Specimen
Green Gel (GGT) is acceptable.
Specimen Handling Instructions
If other tests are ordered, collect a separate tube for the ionized calcium test. Important: Do not open the tube.
Green-top tube (GGT-Plasma) is also acceptable. Heparinized syringe also acceptable.
Transport
Routine courier pick-up
Cutoff Time
None
Department
Chemistry
Methodology
Ion selective electrode
Stat Turn-around Time
1 Hour
Routine Turn-around Time
1 Day
Reference Ranges
4.5-5.3 mg/dL