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🔬Lab & Specimen Handling

How do you prevent hemolysis?

Proper technique — avoiding small-gauge needles in fragile veins, not shaking tubes, and using the correct draw speed — prevents most hemolysis. Providers document any collection complications.

Key hemolysis prevention steps:

  • Use the appropriate needle gauge for the vein (typically 21–23G)
  • Allow the venipuncture site to dry completely before drawing
  • Draw at a consistent, controlled speed without back-pressure
  • Invert tubes gently (never shake) per required number of inversions
  • Do not transfer blood through a small-bore syringe

    • Hemolysis is the most common reason for specimen rejection by labs.

    Can samples degrade?Can mobile phlebotomy meet lab standards?

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