Graham Ellis1. 1. Department of Clinical Biochemistry, St. John's Hospital, Livingston West Lothian, Scotland, UK. graham.ellis3@wlt.scot.nhs.uk
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To study an episode of excessive sample hemolysis associated with a recently installed pneumatic tube system from the Accident and Emergency Department. DESIGN AND METHODS: Hemolysis rates in samples delivered with a tube system installed 3-4 months previously were followed up retrospectively and prospectively. The laboratory database was searched over a 3-year period for serum potassium results and the number of hemolyzed samples rejected that had been delivered by pneumatic tube or by hand. RESULTS: Before the tube system was installed, the weekly mean hemolysis rate was 3.3%. After installation, the rate was 10.9% for 12 weeks but then it increased to 54%. After a fault was corrected, values fell to 9.0% and to 7.1% after samples were bubble-wrapped. Other wards served as controls. CONCLUSION: Laboratories should be aware that defects may arise in tube systems that may result in rapid sample deceleration and excessive hemolysis.
OBJECTIVES: To study an episode of excessive sample hemolysis associated with a recently installed pneumatic tube system from the Accident and Emergency Department. DESIGN AND METHODS: Hemolysis rates in samples delivered with a tube system installed 3-4 months previously were followed up retrospectively and prospectively. The laboratory database was searched over a 3-year period for serum potassium results and the number of hemolyzed samples rejected that had been delivered by pneumatic tube or by hand. RESULTS: Before the tube system was installed, the weekly mean hemolysis rate was 3.3%. After installation, the rate was 10.9% for 12 weeks but then it increased to 54%. After a fault was corrected, values fell to 9.0% and to 7.1% after samples were bubble-wrapped. Other wards served as controls. CONCLUSION: Laboratories should be aware that defects may arise in tube systems that may result in rapid sample deceleration and excessive hemolysis.
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