Anti Xa *

SIM

CPT

Synonyms

Specimen Type

Container

Blue-top sodium citrate tube.

Collection Instructions

Blood is to be collected in a blue-top  tube containing 3.2 % buffered sodium citrate. Evacuated collection tubes must be filled to completion to ensure a proper blood to anticoagulant ratio. Sample should be mixed immediately by gentle inversion at least six times to ensure adequate mixing of specimen and anticoagulant. Place specimen on ice to deliver to laboratory.

Volume

1 mL plasma (not blood volume) 
 

Additional Information

Determine the plasma level of unfractionated heparin (UFH) or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). Historically, many laboratories have monitored heparin levels using the PTT. A large number of conditions can complicate the use of the PTT in monitoring therapy. In these cases, the anti-Xa assay may be more appropriate for monitoring heparin therapy.

Patient Preparation

Heparin anti-Xa levels should be drawn 6 hours after initiation of unfractionated heparin therapy, or change in dose, whereas with low molecular weight heparin, levels should be drawn 6 hours after administration if once daily and 3-4 hours if twice daily.

Specimen Processing Instructions

Once delivered to the laboratory on ice, the specimen is centrifuged ASAP and the plasma carefully removed and frozen.
 

Transport Requirements

Frozen

Specimen Stability

Rejection Criteria

Specimens not received in lab on ice; quantity not sufficient; blue top tube not filled properly;gross hemolysis.

Reference Range

Reference Range accompanies report

Critical Value

Test Includes

Methodology

Testing Frequency

LCA

Reviewed By

Reviewed Date

Supplemental

* Denotes reference test*