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Test Code BE Base Excess, Arterial, Blood

Methodology

Useful for assessing acid/base status. This test may have some clinical utility in determining the extent of fluid treatment in acid-base disorders.
Note:  #BGA “Blood Gases, Arterial, Blood” must also be ordered when requesting this test.

Performing Laboratory

St. Clair Hospital Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Specimen must arrive within 1 hour of draw.

 

1 lithium heparin blood gas syringe (1.0 mL of lithium heparin whole blood). Syringe should be placed in wet ice slush immediately after draw.

Reference Values

-2 to +3 mEq/L

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday