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Haemolyzed samples: responsibility of short catheters
F Raisky1, C Gauthier, A Marchal
1Laboratoire de biologie, CHG Louis-Pasteur, France.
Annales De Biologie Clinique
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Blood sample hemolysis, a common error in clinical biochemistry, is significantly influenced by the venipuncture material. Stainless steel needles cause less hemolysis than Teflon or Vialon catheters, improving diagnostic accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Medical Devices
- Laboratory Medicine
Background:
- Hemolysis of blood samples introduces errors in clinical biochemistry tests.
- The material used for venipuncture is a potential factor influencing sample hemolysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the rate of hemolysis in blood samples collected using different venipuncture materials.
- To identify the optimal material for venipuncture to minimize sample hemolysis.
Main Methods:
- A randomized study involving 350 emergency department patients.
- Comparison of hemolysis rates using stainless steel needles, Teflon FEP catheters, and polyurethane Vialon catheters.
- Quantification of hemolysis by measuring plasma hemoglobin optical density.
Main Results:
- Significant relationship found between venipuncture material and hemolysis occurrence.
- Higher hemolysis rates observed with Teflon (42%) and Vialon (55%) catheters compared to stainless steel needles (12%).
- Hemolysis incidence was notably higher with catheters, especially for elevated plasma hemoglobin levels.
Conclusions:
- Venipuncture material significantly impacts blood sample hemolysis.
- Stainless steel needles are associated with substantially lower hemolysis rates than short catheters.
- Recommendations for using needles or Teflon catheters to reduce hemolysis in clinical settings.