Synonyms
Pentothal®
Test Includes
Pentobarbital
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Related Information
In-house validated method
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum OR Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
300 μL
Container
Red-top (no additive) tube or green-top (heparin) tube or lavender top (EDTA) tube. Serum/plasma transfer tube. Gel-barrier tubes are not recommended.
Collection
Serum or plasma should be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture. Submit serum or plasma in a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Submission/transport (<3 days): Room temperature. For storage beyond three days, specimen should be refrigerated or frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Gel-barrier tubes
Test Details
Use
STAT measurement of pentobarbital in patients with medically induced coma.
Methodology
Immunoassay
Reference Interval
1.0 - 5.0 µg/mL; Pentobarbital concentrations as high as 50 µg/mL may be required to induce therapeutic coma.