Factors in the Preanalytical Phase That Can Cause Hemolysis: Importance of Prevention

Summary

• Hemolysis can be caused by various factors in the preanalytical phase of lab testing.
• Common causes of hemolysis include improper blood collection techniques and inadequate Sample Handling.
• Preventing hemolysis is essential to ensure accurate laboratory Test Results and patient care.

When it comes to laboratory testing, the preanalytical phase is crucial as it directly impacts the quality and accuracy of Test Results. Hemolysis, the rupture or destruction of red blood cells, can occur during this phase due to various factors. Hemolyzed samples can lead to erroneous Test Results and potentially impact patient care. Therefore, it is essential to understand the factors in the preanalytical phase that can cause hemolysis and work towards preventing it.

Improper Blood Collection Techniques

One of the primary causes of hemolysis in the preanalytical phase is improper blood collection techniques. The way blood samples are collected can significantly impact the integrity of the sample and the likelihood of hemolysis occurring. Some common improper blood collection techniques that can cause hemolysis include:

1. Using a small needle size: A small needle size can cause hemolysis as it puts excessive pressure on the red blood cells during collection.
2. Applying excessive force: Drawing blood too quickly or applying too much force to the syringe or vacuum tube can lead to hemolysis.
3. Failing to mix tubes properly: If tubes containing anticoagulants are not mixed gently after collection, it can lead to hemolysis.

Inadequate Sample Handling

Another significant factor in the preanalytical phase that can cause hemolysis is inadequate Sample Handling. Once blood samples are collected, they need to be handled properly to prevent hemolysis. Common mistakes in Sample Handling that can lead to hemolysis include:

1. Excessive agitation: Agitating blood samples too vigorously can cause hemolysis, as it disrupts the red blood cells.
2. Improper storage conditions: Blood samples should be stored at the appropriate temperature to prevent hemolysis. Exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to the rupture of red blood cells.
3. Delay in processing: Delaying the processing of blood samples can result in hemolysis, as the longer the sample sits, the higher the chances of red blood cell breakdown.

Specimen Contamination

Specimen contamination is another factor in the preanalytical phase that can cause hemolysis. Contaminants in blood samples can trigger hemolysis and compromise the integrity of the sample. Some common sources of specimen contamination that can lead to hemolysis include:

1. Alcohol swabs: Using alcohol swabs improperly or not allowing the alcohol to dry completely before blood collection can contaminate the sample and lead to hemolysis.
2. Clotted samples: Clotted samples can release substances that cause hemolysis, so ensuring proper collection techniques to prevent clotting is essential.
3. Improper needle insertion: Inserting the needle improperly or moving it during collection can introduce contaminants into the sample and result in hemolysis.

Conclusion

It is essential to understand the factors in the preanalytical phase that can cause hemolysis to prevent it effectively. Improper blood collection techniques, inadequate Sample Handling, and specimen contamination are significant contributors to hemolysis. By ensuring proper training for healthcare professionals, following established protocols for blood collection and handling, and maintaining a clean and sterile environment, hemolysis can be minimized. Preventing hemolysis is crucial to obtaining accurate laboratory Test Results, ensuring quality patient care, and avoiding unnecessary repeat testing.

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