What happens if the tubes are not inverted after drawing?

Inverting blood collection tubes after drawing is crucial for ensuring proper mixing of the blood sample with any additives present in the tubes. Additives can include anticoagulants, gels, or other substances that play essential roles in preserving the integrity of the sample and preventing clotting.

When blood is not inverted, the additives may not evenly mix with the blood, leading to a situation where coagulation can occur despite the presence of anticoagulants. This can result in clotted samples, making them unsuitable for testing, particularly for certain assays that require whole blood or serum. Proper inversion is especially important for tubes containing anticoagulants, where failure to invert can negate the intended effect of preventing clot formation.

This principle underscores the importance of following correct laboratory procedures to ensure sample accuracy and reliability.