What should you do if you notice hemolysis in a blood sample?

Hemolysis refers to the rupture of red blood cells and the release of hemoglobin into the serum or plasma. This condition can significantly impact the accuracy of many laboratory tests, leading to unreliable results. Therefore, if you observe hemolysis in a blood sample, the best course of action is to discard the sample and collect a new one.

Collecting a new sample ensures that the subsequent tests will reflect the true physiological state of the patient without the confounding influence of hemolysis. It is vital to obtain samples that are as accurate as possible in order to provide the best diagnostic information.

While other actions might seem feasible, such as documenting the hemolysis or altering the testing methods, they do not address the fundamental issue of compromised sample integrity. Proper laboratory protocols prioritize the acquisition of a high-quality specimen for accurate diagnostic outcomes.