1. Hemolysis: This is, by far, the most frequent pre-analytical error, accounting for up to 40-60% of all pre-analytical mistakes. Hemolysis (the rupture of red blood cells) often occurs due to difficult draws, using too small a needle, or forcing blood too quickly through a syringe into a tube.
2. Insufficient Sample Volume: This is another very common error, often requiring a recollection and causing significant delays.
3. Incorrect Tube Type: Using the wrong anticoagulant or additive tube (e.g., drawing a chemistry test in a lavender-top EDTA tube meant for hematology) can ruin a sample.
4. Identification and Labeling Errors (The Most Dangerous):
5. Misidentification: Errors related to wrong patient identification or mislabeling are less frequent than hemolysis but have the most severe potential consequences. They are estimated to account for 5-10% of pre-analytical errors.
6. A misidentified sample can lead to misdiagnosis, wrong treatment, blood transfusion errors, or unnecessary procedures. This is why automation like barcoding is so critical.
7. Improper Filling & Mixing: Under-filling a tube with anticoagulant can cause clots. Not inverting the tube enough after draw can prevent proper mixing, leading to inaccurate results.
8. Time Delays: Not transporting or processing samples in a timely manner can cause degradation of analytes and invalid results.
9. Request Form Errors: Missing or incorrect information on the requisition form.

Automation minimizes human error, speeds up processes, allows for better resource management, and delivers consistent turn-around times leading to enhanced laboratory performance that leads to better laboratory staff satisfaction, clinician and patient outcomes .

Phlebotomy automation includes technologies designed to streamline the blood collection process, improving accuracy and reducing turnaround time.

Absolutely! We offer expert consultation for setting up clinical laboratories to ensure they operate at their highest capacity.

You can contact us via email or phone to discuss your laboratory’s needs and schedule a consultation.