Carbon Dioxide, Total CPT: 82374
Synonyms
CO₂
TCO₂
Special Instructions
Maintain specimen in a tightly-stoppered tube.
Expected Turnaround Time
Within 1 day
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum (preferred) or plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)
Container
Gel-barrier tube (send entire tube) is preferred; red-top tube or green-top (heparin) tube is acceptable if centrifuged within 45 minutes and the serum or plasma is removed and placed in a tightly-stoppered secondary tube.
Collection
Draw blood in gel-barrier tube and centrifuge. If red-top tube or green-top tube is used, centrifuge within 45 minutes of draw, remove the serum or plasma, and place in a transport tube and tightly stopper the tube.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Stability Requirements
Patient Information
As part of an electrolyte panel to identify or monitor an electrolyte imbalance or acid-base (pH) imbalance
During a routine physical or as recommended by your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing symptoms such as weakness, confusion, prolonged vomiting, or breathing problems that could indicate an electrolyte imbalance or an acid-base imbalance (commonly described as acidosis or alkalosis)
A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm.