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🔬Lab & Specimen Handling

What is sample stability time?

Sample stability varies by analyte — some are stable for hours, others for days. Providers experienced in specimen handling understand these requirements.

Example stability windows:

  • Serum (most chemistry): 7 days refrigerated after separation
  • CBC in EDTA: 24–48 hours at room temperature
  • Coagulation (PT/INR): 4 hours at room temperature
  • ACTH: Must be frozen within 15 minutes of collection
  • Ammonia: Must be placed on ice and analyzed within 20 minutes
  • Genetic (cfDNA): Stable in Streck tubes for up to 14 days at room temperature

    • Always confirm stability requirements with the ordering lab when scheduling time-sensitive collections.

    Can mobile phlebotomy handle STAT specimens?Can samples be dropped off same day?

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