Survey on the prevalence of hemolytic specimens in an academic hospital according to collection facility: opportunities for quality improvement.

摘要

Laboratory test results are useful only when a high degree of quality is ensured throughout the total testing process (1). Although errors can occur at each step, preanalytical variables are recognized as the predominant source of mistakes (1, 2). Among the various problems that occur in the preanalytical phase, in vitro hemolysis is often reported as the leading source of error because many test results (e.g., potassium, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, coagulation testing) can be unreliable if hemolyzed samples are used (3-5). The most promising approach for dealing with hemolysis in patient samples is based on process monitoring, education and prevention (1, 2). Regardless of whatever strategy is implemented, effectiveness can only be achieved once the process has been extensively investigated, identifying the areas and activities that comprise the greatest risk (1, 2).