Clinical ProceduresQuestion 42 of 100
A patient's lavender-top specimen is rejected by the laboratory for hemolysis. Which technique error most likely caused it?
a.Letting the alcohol dry completely before puncture
b.Filling the tube to the manufacturer's fill line
c.Vigorously shaking the tube after collection and using an excessively small-bore needle
d.Inverting the tube gently eight times
Explanation
Hemolysis occurs when red cells rupture, commonly from shaking tubes, forcing blood through a needle that is too small, or drawing through a traumatic puncture. Letting alcohol dry, filling to the correct line, and gentle inversion are all correct steps that help prevent hemolysis and clotting. Hemolyzed specimens falsely raise values such as potassium and must be redrawn.
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