All
Returning to a topic last discussed 3 years ago, and more recently in an audit of haemolysed samples received. On data taken last year, we found our rates were more or less in keeping with averages.
Briefly, one of our ED sites is currently running with a haemolysis rate between 25 and 35%, causing understandable consternation as the normal rate is just over 10% of samples. We are not seeing this on another ED site, nor increases in any other ward location and are at a loss to understand what the cause is.
This first started a little over 2 weeks ago without any suggestion of a possible causal relationship (phebotomy or bottle change, procedure change, staff change, air tube).
The patients seen normally in ED have a "conversion" rate (patient admitted) of 20%, it's currently around 30% with sicker, elderly patients presenting. This might offer a partial explanation.
Labs are trying to help solve the conundrum, have asked ED to invite in the blood collection product supplier to audit their practice. It's difficult for us to comment upon practices in ED.
Have any other Labs been challenged by increased haemolysis rates in a similar manner and can they share their experiences? It's obviously in Labs interest also to find answers and put solutions in place.
David Wright
Head BMS
Clinical Biochemistry
Northern Trust
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