Errors due to heparin in the estimation of plasma sodium and potassium concentrations.

Author(s): Shek CC, Swaminathan R

Publication: Intensive Care Med, 1985, Vol. 11, Page 309-11

PubMed ID: 4086706 PubMed Review Paper? No

Purpose of Paper

Conclusion of Paper

Studies

1. Study Purpose

   The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of anticoagulation with sodium heparin rather than lithium heparin on the measurement of sodium and potassium in plasma by flame photometry and in whole blood by ion selective electrode.

   Summary of Findings:

   When blood was collected into tubes containing 100 ul, but not 20 ul of 5000 U/mL sodium heparin, sodium and potassium, measured by ion selective electrode in plasma, were decreased (both p<0.001), and sodium, measured by flame photometry in whole blood, was increased (p<0.001) compared to levels in specimens anticoagulated with lithium heparin. Collection of blood into tubes containing 100 ul of 1000 U/mL sodium heparin increased sodium and decreased potassium levels in plasma and in whole blood compared to lithium heparin specimens (all p<0.001).

   Biospecimens

   • Bodily Fluid - Blood
   • Bodily Fluid - Plasma

   Preservative Types

   • None (Fresh)

   Diagnoses:

   • Not specified

   Platform:

   Analyte	Technology Platform
   Electrolyte/Metal	Flame emission photometry
   Electrolyte/Metal	Ion selective electrode

   Pre-analytical Factors:

   Classification	Pre-analytical Factor	Value(s)
   Biospecimen Acquisition	Anticoagulant	Lithium heparin Multiple concentrations evaluated Sodium heparin
   Biospecimen Aliquots and Components	Blood and blood products	Plasma Whole blood

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