Accessibility links
|
|
Bicarbonate
minimum sample volume required ~ 5ml
Test Code: CO2
Tube type: SST
Other acceptable tube types
Lithium heparin (pale green)
Special instructions
Adult sample tubes MUST be AT LEAST half full for analysis to take place.
Due to stability issues, analysis must take place as soon as possible following sample uncapping. Bicarbonate will therefore NOT be added retrospectively.
Reference range
22 - 29
Units
mmol/L
Linked to
LDH
Turnaround Time
1
day
Department: Biochemistry
Clinical Application
Venous bicarbonate may be useful in assessment of acid-base balance. Part of "R3" profile for renal paediatric investigation.
Limitations
LDH concentrations of ≥2000IU/L can falsely increase bicarbonate concentrations by up to 12%. All bicarbonate requests will have an LDH measured and appropriate comment applied to the bicarbonate result where LDH is ≥2000IU/L.
Webpage updated: November 2025.
