Since the relative acidity and oxygenation status of venous and arterial cord gases are reversed relative to traditional arterial and venous samples, appropriate use of lab ordering codes is essential for physician interpretation.
Cord blood gas is to be ordered under the baby's medical history number/name, under the OB provider.
Ice pack cooling is not required if the sample is analyzed within 30 minutes. If blood gas analysis will not be performed within 30 minutes after specimen collection, transport sample in a cold pack or prepare a container with ice water capable of maintaining refrigerated temperatures and large enough for immersion of the barrel of the capped/sealed syringe.