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HelpTest Code MG.1 MAGNESIUM LEVEL
Methodology
Colorimetric
Useful in monitoring pre-eclampsia patients being treated with magnesium sulfate, although in most cases monitoring clinical signs (respiratory rate and deep tendon reflexes) is adequate and blood magnesium levels are not required.
Specimen Requirements
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Preferred:
Serum
Serum Gel Tube
Container/Tube: Serum gel tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of
serum-Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.
Collection Instructions: Spin down within 4 hours of draw.
Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).
Alternate:
Serum
Plain, Red-Top Tube
Container/Tube: Plain, red-top tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of
serum-Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.
Collection Instructions: Spin down within 4 hours of draw.
Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).
Plasma
Container/Tube: Green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of plasma-Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.
Collection Instructions: Spin down within 4 hours of draw.
Note: Label specimen appropriately (plasma).
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Reference Values
1.6-2.2 mg/dL
Critical values (automatic call-back):
< 18 years < 1.0 and > 6.0 mg/dL
≥ 18 years Obstetrical Patients ≤ 1.0 and ≥ 10.0 mg/dL
≥ 18 years Non OB Patients ≤ 1.0 and ≥ 6.0 mg/dL
Performing Laboratory
Logan Health Medical Center-Chemistry
Test Classification and CPT Coding
83735
Specimen Transport Temperature
Refrigerate