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Test Code LAB110 pH, Pleural Fluid

Performing Laboratory

Barnes-Jewish Hospital Laboratory

Methodology

Ion-Specific Electrode (ISE)

Literature References:

1. Reference manual: ABL 800 Series.  Radiometer America, Bronshoj Denmark, 2009.

2. pH Meter: pHTestr 50 and 50S Pocket Testers Operating Instructions. Oakton Instruments; Vernon Hills, IL 60061.

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Pleural Fluid

Container/Tube: Clean container or syringe

Specimen Volume: 5 mL

 

Collection Instructions:

1. Obtain specimen and place into a clean container or syringe.

2. If collected in a clean container, immediately draw 5 mL of fluid into a syringe.

3. Expel any air and cap with a Luer-Lok.

4. Place specimen in ice and send immediately to the lab.

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday
Turnaround Time:
STAT: 1 hour after receipt in laboratory
Routine: not available

Test Classification and CPT Coding

83986

Reference Values

Pleural fluid pH is normally approximately 7.64. pH <7.2 is indicative of complicated parapneumonic effusions.

 

Literature References:

Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Sixth Edition. Elsevier Press. 2018. Chapter 43, Body Fluids, p. 925
Pleural effusions: Evaluation and Management. Cleve Clin J Med 2005;72:854-72.

 

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient < 1 hr / On wet ice < 2 hrs

Additional Information

For BJH Laboratory Use Only

Alternate Tube type(s): Mint Green or Red top tube

Analyte Stability:

See Analyte Stability Chart under General Information for a complete list.

Laboratory Processing Instructions:

Test performed in BJH Core lab. Deliver to the blood gas workstation immediately.

LOINC Code Information

Name LOINC Code
pH, Fluid 2748-2