LOINCActiveObservation

LOINC Code 78944-6: Procedure start time

78944-6 is a LOINC code used to identify Procedure start time 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 Procedure start time. It is commonly used with the system or sample type ^Patient.

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 Procedure start time. It is commonly used with the system or sample type ^Patient.

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

  • Procedure start time
  • CARD.PROC; Cardiology; Date and time; Point in time; Proc start time; QNT; Quan; Quant; Quantitative; Random; Started; Time stamp; Timestamp

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

Procedure start timeProc start timeCARD.PROCTmStpPt^PatientQn

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code78944-6
SystemLOINC
Display nameProcedure start time
Short nameProc start time
ComponentProcedure start time
PropertyTmStp
TimingPt
System (specimen)^Patient
ScaleQn
ClassCARD.PROC
Example unitsHHMM
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationObservation

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released2.54
Last changed2.73

Part names

Procedure start timeTmStpPt^PatientQnTime Stamp (Date and Time)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 78944-6 | HealthAssure