Which of the following is an acceptable sample for a prothrombin time (PT) test?
a. One that was collected 22 hours before testing and stored at room temperature
b. One with a very small clot that was easily removed
c. 3.2% Sodium citrate blood sample immediately collected following a serum separator tube
d. Blood anticoagulated with heparin and brought to the laboratory within 1 hour
ANS: A
PT specimens may be held 18° to 24°C (room temperature) for 24 hours from the time of collection and still give valid results. Any clot in a specimen makes the sample useless for coagulation testing. Serum separator tubes contain a clot activator; this can contaminate the next tube drawn, and, for coagulation, is the same as having a clot. Heparinized samples are not used for coagulation testing.
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