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Acetaminophen Level

Additional Codes

Epic code:  LAB43

Performing Laboratory

MBMC Main Laboratory

Methodology

Colorimetric

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen Type: Plasma

Container/Tube: Mint-green top (lithium heparin gel)

Specimen Volume: Full tube

Alternative Specimen Type: Serum

Alternative Container/Tube: Gold, Serum Gel

Alternative Specimen Volume: Full tube

Specimen Transport Temperature

Refrigerate

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Turnaround Time:
STAT: 1 hour after receipt in laboratory
Routine: within 4 hours

Reference Values

Interpretive Data:

Significant hepatic injury may occur and treatment with n-acetyl cysteine is generally recommended if the acetaminophen level exceeds:  

150 mcg/mL at 4 hours after ingestion  

75 mcg/mL at 8 hours after ingestion  

38 mcg/mL at 12 hours after ingestion  

19 mcg/mL at 16 hours after ingestion

To determine acetaminophen half-life, the first two samples should be drawn at least 4 hours after ingestion to ensure peak levels have been acheived.

Critical value (automatic call-back): ≥100 mcg/mL (first time per admission)

Test Classification and CPT Coding

Test Classification:

This test has been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer’s instructions.

CPT Code:

80143

Stability

5 days Refrigerated