Pathology Handbook

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Ammonia

Alternative Names:

NH3

Laboratory:

Clinical Biochemistry

Test Code:

AMM

Specimen Types:

Plasma

Container Types:

EDTA 4 mL (collect on ice)
Lithium Heparin (with Gel) collect on ice
Lithium Heparin (without Gel) collect on ice

Adults Volume or Mass:

4 mL

Minimum/Paediatric Volume or Mass:

2 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

A separate container is required for this test.
Collect on Ice
Retrospective testing not possible.

As haemolysed specimens are not suitable for ammonia measurements, blood collection should be performed via venipuncture (and not heel prick).

Samples collected on ice are acceptable for up to one hour post collection.

For outpatient requests, collection should be performed at The Northern Hospital Epping rooms only.

Transport Instructions:

On Ice
Send to lab immediately

Processing Instructions:

Centrifuge immediately and aliquot plasma. Separated plasma stable for 2 hours at 4 degrees Celcius, 3 weeks frozen at -20 degrees Celsius. Freeze plasma if there is a delay in testing.

Assay Frequency:

Daily