Test Code Unf Hep Unfractionated Heparin Assay
Aliases
UNF
Patient Preparation
No special patient preparation required
Special Collection Instructions
Properly filled 9:1 ratio (blood to anticoagulant); 3.2% NaCitrate tube
Collection Method
Venous Draw; properly filled 9:1 ratio (blood to anticoagulant)
Container
Light Blue Sodium Citrate
Reference or Target Ranges
0.3 – 0.7 IU/mL
Reportable Units
IU/mL
Critical Value
Not defined for this assay
Reasons for Rejection
Hemolysis Threshold | If visible – reject |
Icterus Threshold | If visible – reject |
Lipemia Threshold | If visible – reject |
Interfering Subtances/Other | Short draws, over draws, clotted, improperly labeled, samples > 1 hour from collection |
Specimen Stability
Ambient | 4 hrs; Must be spun within 1 hour of colllection |
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C) | N/A |
Frozen(-70°C to -20°C) | 15 days@ -20°C; 1 year @ -70°C |
Special Handling
Must be spun/received in Lab within 1 hour of phlebotomy
Once sample is received in Lab- testing must be performed on Platelet Poor Plasma
Performance Information
Days and Time Performed | 24/7 |
Expected Turn Around Time | Stat:1 hour on arrival to lab Routine:4 hours on arrival to lab |
Stat Availability | Yes |
Performing Bench | Coagulation |
Methodology/Method Description | UH: Werfen ACL TOPS - Chromogenic Assay |
Additional Information/Important Notes
Specimen must be received in lab <1 hour after collection
Useful For
Unfractionated Heparins (UNF) are used for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic diseases. The quantitative determination of UNF are useful for monitoring treatment efficacy.
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL of plasma from a properly filled 1.8 mL or 2.7 mL NaCitrate (light blue) tube
CPT Codes
85520