Test Code MG Magnesium, Plasma or Serum
Performing Laboratory
MaineGeneral Medical Center
Reference Values
1.6-2.6 mg/dL
Critical values (automatic call-back): <1.0 mg/dL or >4.5 mg/dL
Specimen Requirements
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Preferred: Plasma
Draw blood in a green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s). For pediatric specimen, draw blood in a green-top (lithium heparin) MICROTAINER(S)®. (Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.) Spin down and send 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma refrigerated.
Note: 1. Indicate plasma on request form.
2. Label specimen with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and time of draw, phlebotomist’s initials, and as plasma.
Alternate: Serum
Draw blood in a serum gel tube(s). (Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.) Spin down and send 1 mL of serum refrigerated.
Note: 1. Indicate serum on request form.
2. Label specimen with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and time of draw, phlebotomist’s initials, and as serum.
Sample may be stored at 2-8C for up to seven (7) days. Freeze for longer storage.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
83735
Methodology
Colorimetric