Question 21

A greentop tube for ammonia testing that is being shipped in an icy water mixture

Shipping a greentop tube for ammonia testing in an icy water mixture is appropriate as it ensures the stability of the ammonia levels during transport, preventing degradation of the specimen.

A) A redtop tube that is being shipped after clotting for 15 min and being centrifuged

This option is incorrect because while the redtop tube may be properly processed, it does not specify any temperature control during shipping. Without appropriate temperature management, the integrity of many analytes may be compromised.

B) A tube containing serum that is being shipped after separation from a lavendertop tube

This option is also incorrect. Although serum separation is essential, the lack of mention regarding temperature control or the conditions of transport makes it inadequate for ensuring specimen stability, particularly for sensitive tests.

C) A tigertop tube for bili testing that is being shipped in a clear biohazard bag

This option is incorrect because the packaging in a biohazard bag does not address the critical temperature requirements for bilirubin stability. Bilirubin is sensitive to light and temperature, so without appropriate measures, the specimen may not remain viable for accurate testing.

D) A greentop tube for ammonia testing that is being shipped in an icy water mixture

This is the correct choice as ammonia levels are sensitive to temperature changes. Shipping the specimen in an icy water mixture helps maintain the necessary low temperature, ensuring the accuracy of the ammonia test results.

Conclusion

The correct answer, D, is definitively right because it addresses the critical factor of temperature control necessary for the stability of ammonia in the specimen. All other options fail to ensure proper specimen integrity during shipping, which is essential for accurate test outcomes.