Pathology | Eastern Health

Test & Collection Guide

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Cortisol - blood

Laboratory:

Biochemistry

Test Code:

CORT

Specimen types:

Serum
Plasma

Container types:

Serum tube with gel
EDTA

Collection Instructions:

Transport specimen at Room Temperature to lab

Cortisol can be collected at any time of the day. Multiple collections in one day are sometimes helpful.

If the requesting doctor specifies "morning cortisol/"AM cortisol", the preferred collection period is between 0800 - 1000 hrs. "Afternoon cortisol"/"PM cortisol" is best collected between 1600 - 1700 hrs.

If there is any doubt do not send the patient away without documented consultation with a senior scientist. (9895 3471)

If request is in the context of a "dexamethasone suppression test" or "Short Synacthen Test" refer to these entries in this handbook for specific instructions

Minimum Adult Volume:

2 mL

Notes:

Endocrine consultation is suggested for dynamic testing

Frequency:

Daily

Result Turnaround Time:

5 hours

Reference Interval:

Morning (6-10 am)	133-537 nmol/L
Afternoon(4-8pm)	68-327 nmol/L

Accessing Results

EMR: Pathology results are available via EMR.

Auscare: If EMR is unavailable, results can be accessed through Auscare. Don’t have an Auscare login? Complete the Auscare User Form.

To access Auscare, see instructions.

Forms & Collection Guides

Consent Form – Non-Medicare Tests
For tests not covered by Medicare. Download Form

Pathology Request Form
Printable referral form for submitting pathology requests. Download Form.

Microbiology Swab Collection Guide
Step-by-step instructions for correct swab collection. Download Guide.

Preferred Order of Draw
Instructions to ensure accurate blood collection and results. View Instructions

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