Abaxis VETSCAN VS2 Manual Del Usuario página 9

1.3.2 Step 2: Obtain a Sample
Sample Types
Whole blood samples: Use only lithium heparin test tubes (green top).
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Plasma samples: Obtain these from whole blood samples (lithium heparin).
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Serum: Obtain from a sample placed in a red top test tube.
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Note: Do not use EDTA (lavender top test tube) for any samples to be tested on the VetScan
VS2 Chemistry Analyzer.
Guidelines for Obtaining Samples
Serum samples: Use no-additive evacuated specimen collection tubes or serum separa-

tor tubes.
Whole blood or plasma samples: Use only lithium heparin evacuated specimen collec-

tion tubes.
Obtain a sample of approximately 100 µL.

When collecting the sample in lithium heparin collection tubes, fill the tube at least half-
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way to maintain the proper ratio of sample to anticoagulant.
Run samples within 60 minutes. If this not possible, spin down and remove the plasma or

serum.
Place the plasma or serum into a clean red top tube, and run within five hours. If this is

not possible, refrigerate the sample in a stoppered container at 2–8 ºC (36–46 ºF) for no
longer than 48 hours. A plasma or serum sample can also be stored at -10 ºC (14 ºF) for
up to five weeks in a freezer that does not have a self-defrost cycle.
Guidelines for Handling Samples
Use the following guidelines and procedures to ensure best results.
Before dispensing, remove the needle to avoid hemolysis.
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Dispense the sample slowly into the sample tube.
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For dehydrated patients: Use plasma, or allow the sample to settle for 5 minutes and
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then draw from the top of the sample.
Quick Reference Guide
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