PLATELET COUNT
Detail Description
Clinical Significance
Platelet Count, EDTA - Platelets must be present in adequate numbers and have proper function to aid in hemostasis.
Preferred Specimen(s)
Whole blood from a full EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Minimum Volume
Microtainer 0.5 mL
1 mL whole blood EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Collection Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. If multiple draw, collect EDTA (lavender-top) tube last. Traumatic draw can introduce thromboplastin and trap WBC and platelets. Refrigeration can precipitate fibrin and trap WBC and platelets.
Transport Container
EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Transport Temperature
Room temperature - do not refrigerate
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: Not provided
Frozen: Not provided
Reject Criteria
Gross hemolysis • Clotted
Setup Schedule
Methodology
Electronic Cell Sizing/Counting/Cytometry/Microscopy
Reference Range(s)
≤3 Days 150-450 Thousand/µL
4 Days-6 Months 150-400 Thousand/µL
>6 Months 140-400 Thousand/µL
Alternative Name(s)
PLT Count