Test Code Osmo Osmolality
Patient Preparation
No special patient preparation required
Collection Method
Venous collection
Minimum Volume
0.1 mL
Container
Gold Top / Serum Separator / Additive Free
Preferred Specimen
Gold Top SST
Acceptable Specimens
Serum:
- Gold Top SST
- Red Top
Plasma
- Light Green Top (lithium heparin)
Reference or Target Ranges
Neonate | as low as 266 mOsm/kg of H2O |
Child to 60 years | 275 – 295 mOsm/kg of H2O |
>60 years | 280 – 301 mOsm/kg of H2O |
Reportable Units
mOsm/kg of H2O
Critical Value
<250 mOsm/kg or >340 mOsm/kg
Reasons for Rejection
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Hemolysis Threshold | No interference |
Icterus Threshold | Not listed |
Lipemia Threshold | Not listed |
Other | QNS, contaminated, improperly labeled, improper specimen type |
Specimen Stability
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Ambient | 3 hours |
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C) | 10 hours |
Frozen(-40°C to 0°C) | 1 week |
Performance Information
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Days and Time Performed | 24/7 |
Expected Turn Around Time | Stat: 1 hour Routine: 4 hours |
Stat Availability | Yes |
Performing Bench | UH Chemistry |
Methodology/Method Description | Advanced Instruments Micro-Osmometer – Uses the technique of freezing-point depression to measure osmolality |
Special Handling
If testing delayed, refrigerate or freeze ASAP to prevent a change in the original osmolality due to evaporation of H2O, decomposition or combination of solutes. Prior to analysis, specimens must equilibrate to room temperature and be gently mixed to aid the complete solution of any precipitated solutes.
CPT Codes
83930