Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Author Spotlight: Training of Laboratory Animals for Gentle and Stress-Free Handling
Published on: February 16, 2024
Integrity of Uncapped Routine Coagulation Specimens Processed in an Automated Integrated Laboratory
Background:
The validity of laboratory results depends on pre-analytical variables not detected by conventional quality control. Recommendations are for post-centrifugation coagulation samples to remain capped with cappiercing primary tube analysis. Total laboratory automation integrates analytical platforms with potential incompatibilities necessitating changes including pre-analytical uncapping of samples.
Methods:
Samples analyzed for Prothrombin Time (PT), activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), D-dimers, Antithrombin and Fibrinogen at baseline, and after 60 and 120 minutes were left at ambient temperature, either re-capped or uncapped, in order to simulate changes from baseline that could occur in uncapped samples on an automation track prior to analysis. Changes were compared to the maximal permissible bias.
Results:
Sample uncapping for up to 120 minutes at ambient temperature post-centrifugation did not result in clinically significant changes in routine coagulation parameters.
Conclusions:
Routine coagulation parameters will not change significantly if the primary citrate tubes are uncapped after centrifugation prior to analysis.
Related Concept Videos
Integration by Parts: Indefinite Integrals
Integration by Parts: Definite Integrals
Integrator and Differentiator
An integrator within an op-amp circuit produces an output directly proportional to the integral of the input signal. This is achieved by replacing the feedback resistor in a typical inverting...
Definite Integral
Indefinite Integrals
Integration by Parts: Problem Solving

![An Automated Radiosynthesis of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 for Routine Clinical Use](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F66708.jpg&w=3840&q=50)