New test codes for arterial ionized calcium

New codes accommodate different ranges

The Salem Health Laboratory is offering two new test codes for arterial ionized calcium. They will accommodate the different reference range between arterial and venous pH. 

• Arterial pH reference range is 7.35-7.45
• Venous pH reference range is 7.32-7.43

Ionized calcium binding in the blood is affected by the pH of the specimen. Reference ranges allow the software to flag abnormal results, so they are easier to recognize and interpret.

Summary of Change

• LAB8349 (ICALA) - includes ionized calcium and arterial pH.
• The venous version of this test is LAB8237 (ICALV).
• LAB8350 (ICASA) - ICU only. Includes systemic ionized calcium collected during Continuous Veno-Venous Hemofiltration (CVVH) or Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT), and arterial pH.
• The venous version of this test is LAB3860 (ICASY).

What does this mean for you?

Please order the proper test code for arterial vs. venous samples. This will ensure the proper reference range is associated. See the Salem Health Laboratories test menu for more details on the above test codes.