Synonyms Nembutal

CPT 4 Code: 82205

Test Order Mnemonic: PENTOBARB

Lab: Clinical Chemistry

Request Form: Special Chemistry Form 2

Collection: Routine venipuncture. Collect the sample immediately before the next dose.

Storage Instructions: Store at room temperature or 2-8°C. Centrifuge the specimen to separate the serum from the red cells within 4 hours of collection.

Causes for Rejection: Blood collected in a SST/gel separator tube

Availability: Samples are received 24 hours per day at Sample Management, 5.136 McCullough.

Turnaround Time: Routine: 24 hours; STAT: 4 hours

Special Instructions: Results needed after 4 pm require approval of the director or pathology resident on call.

Specimen: Blood

Volume: 3mL blood

Minimum Volume: 1 mL serum

Container: Red-topped tube. Do not use SST/serum separator tube.

Reference Ranges: Therapeutic Range: 1-4 mcg/mL. For treatment of intracranial pressure: 25-40 mcg/mL

Critical Values: Potential Toxicity: > 10 mcg/mL. Concentrations of 12 mcg/mL or greater may produce coma.

Test Method: Gas Chromatography

Reviewed/revised April 2007 by P. Harris