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HelpTest Code LAB3198 Blood Gases, Neonate Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Arterial Blood
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| NICU ARTERIAL BLOOD GASES | LAB3198 | NIABG |
Methodology
pH: pH-sensitive glass electrode in conjunction with a reference electrode
pCO2: An electrode that measures pCO2 ions directly as a pH change due to the diffusion of CO2 across the membrane
PO2: Measured through a Clark-type electrode. Oxygen diffuses through the membrane and continuously replaces oxygen molecules in the electrolyte layer during a cathode reaction.
O2 Saturation: Calculated
HCO3: Calculated
Includes pH, pCO2, PO2, O2 saturation, HCO3, and base excess.
Note: To be ordered by NICU only.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 30 minutes of draw.
Specimen Type: Arterial blood
Container/Tube: Heparin blood gas syringe
Specimen Volume: 0.3 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 0.15 mL
Collection Instructions: Remove needle, express air bubbles, and cap with rubber stopper. Microtainers are not acceptable for specimen collection.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient 30 minutes/Refrigerate NO/Frozen NO
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Performing Laboratory
Chemistry -
East Region: SMDC Clinical Lab
West Region: Fargo Hospital Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
82803
Reference Values
pH
7.37-7.44
pCO2
34-45 mm Hg
HCO3
17-24 mEq/L
PO2
80-95 mm Hg
O2 SATURATION
90.0-95.0%
BASE EXCESS
No established reference values