What would happen if a coagulation test is drawn into a tube with the wrong additive?

When a coagulation test is drawn into a tube that contains the wrong additive, it can significantly impact the test outcomes. The correct additive for coagulation tests is typically sodium citrate, which helps preserve the blood sample and prevents clotting. If a different additive, such as one that promotes clotting (like heparin or EDTA), is used, it can interfere with the coagulation process, leading to alterations in the test results.

Because the erroneous additive alters how the blood behaves in the sample, the coagulation properties measured might not reflect the true physiological state of the patient. For instance, you might observe prolonged clotting times or misleading clotting factor levels, ultimately resulting in false abnormalities. Accurate clotting function assessment is crucial for diagnosing conditions that affect hemostasis, so using the wrong additive can lead to incorrect clinical decisions.

While the sample often may still be usable in a general sense, the results obtained would not be reliable, thereby underscoring the importance of adherence to protocols regarding tube selection and additives for coagulation testing.