LOINCActiveObservation

LOINC Code 42187-5: Number of specimens tested (Specimen) [#]

42187-5 is a LOINC code used to identify Number of specimens tested (Specimen) [#] in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Number of specimens tested. It is commonly used with the system or sample type XXX.

Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 21 May 2026

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Number of specimens tested. It is commonly used with the system or sample type XXX.

When is it used?

  • Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
  • May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
  • Status: ACTIVE
  • Order vs observation: Observation

What it does not mean

  • The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

  • Number of specimens tested
  • # Spec Tst; Cnt; Count; Misc; Miscellaneous; No; Num; Number; Other; Point in time; QNT; Quan; Quant; Quantitative; Random; To be specified in another part of the message; Unspecified

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Number of specimens tested (Specimen) [#]Number of specimens tested# Spec TestSPECNumber of specimens tested, SpecimenNumPt

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code42187-5
SystemLOINC
Display nameNumber of specimens tested (Specimen) [#]
DescriptionNumber of specimens tested
Short name# Spec Test
ComponentNumber of specimens tested
PropertyNum
TimingPt
System (specimen)XXX
ScaleQn
ClassSPEC
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationObservation

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released2.16
Last changed2.73

Consumer names

Number of specimens tested, Specimen

Part names

Number of specimens testedNumPtXXXQnNumber (count)Point in time (spot)

About this content

This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.

LOINC Code 42187-5 | HealthAssure