Specimen Collection

2.7 mL Citrate Blood

or

1.8 mL Citrate Blood

or

1 mL Paediatric Micro-citrate Blood

• Tube must be adequately filled.

Diagnostic Use and Interpretation

HEPARIN THERAPY:

See ADHB Policy on the ADHB intranet:

A. For adult patients:

• \\ahsl6\main\Groups\Everyone\POLICY\Master file of Intranet\Medication Admin\Adult\IV\Heparin.pdf

B. For neonates and paediatric patients:

• https://www.starship.org.nz/for-health-professionals/starship-clinical-guidelines/a/anticoagulation/
• https://www.adhb.govt.nz/newborn/DrugProtocols/HeparinPharmacology.htm

HEPARIN MONITORING:

• Unfractionated heparin is usually monitored by the APTT. The dose is usually adjusted daily.
• Target APTT done in LabPlus is 50 - 80 seconds. For APTT done in other laboratories, please contact your laboratory for the target APTT.
• In some clinical situations, e.g., when heparin resistance is suspected, heparin assay by Anti-Xa method can be considered. Please discuss with the laboratory, and if heparinassay by anti-Xa method is required please indicate on the request form the type of heparin the patient is on.

Notes:

• Individual Clinical Units may have a different range for the target APTT e.g. CCU.
• Check the platelets every 2 - 3 days while the patient is on heparin therapy.
  

Contact Information

For further information contact the Haematology laboratory (Ext 22067) or:

Dr Nicola Eaddy	Ext 22005
Dr Peter Bradbeer	Ext 22062
Dr Anna Ruskova	Ext 22137
Dr Nikhil Rabade	Ext 22071

Last updated at 13:09:28 11/09/2024