What could indicate improper sample handling after blood collection?

Significant hemolysis is a strong indicator of improper sample handling after blood collection. Hemolysis refers to the breakdown of red blood cells, which can occur due to various factors during the collection, processing, or storage of the sample. When blood is drawn, if the technique used is not optimal—such as using a needle that is too small or causing excessive agitation during mixing—it can lead to damage of the red blood cells. Hemolysis can affect the accuracy of many laboratory tests, particularly those measuring values such as potassium, lactate dehydrogenase, and other analytes that can be released from within the cells.

On the other hand, the presence of white blood cells might not directly indicate improper handling; it can be related to the patient's condition or the timing of the sample collection in some cases. Perfectly clear serum typically suggests that the sample was handled well and that there are no significant contaminants or issues, while minimal clot formation could indicate that the sample was processed correctly, particularly if a serum separator was used. Thus, significant hemolysis stands out as a clear sign of potential mishandling of the sample.