Laboratory Services

Hemoglobin and Hematocrit

Print this page

Updated Test Information:

Test Description
Hemoglobin and Hematocrit
Synonym(s)
H&H, HGB, HCT
Test ID
HH
General Information
Evaluate anemia, blood loss, hydration or suspected polycythemic condition, and response to treatment
Specimen Type
Whole Blood
Specimen Requirements
Lavender
Specimen Collection / Processing Instructions
Lavender - Invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after collection
Minimum Sample Volume
0.5 mL of Whole Blood
Pediatric Min. Volume (if applicable)
500 μL for pediatric microtainer capillary tubes; fill tube to capacity.
Additional Processing Details
Specimen is stable at Room Temperature 1 day Specimen is stable Refrigerated 2 days
Stability
Room Temperature: 1 day
Refrigerated: 2 days
Frozen: Unacceptable 
Unacceptable Specimen Conditions
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; tube not filled with minimum volume; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen received with plasma removed.
Limitations
Hyperlipemic plasma or white count >50,000/mm³ may falsely elevate the hemoglobin result with corresponding increase in the MCH. The laboratory will attempt to correct this interference by a special technique.
Methodology
Automated
Estimated TAT
0-2 days
Testing Schedule
Monday-Saturday, & STAT
CPT Code(s)
85014
85018
Reference Range

HGB, g/dL M: 13.7 - 16.7 F: 11.6 - 15.5

HCT, % M: 40 - 50 F: 35 - 46

Reflex Conditions
None
Performing Lab
Incyte Diagnostics
LOINC Code(s)
24360-0