We see the same problem, usually from samples that doctors or practice
nurses take, rather than our Phlebotomy Department. As a result, we
have recently introduced a quantitative assay for EDTA which is
performed as a reflex test for samples with potassium >6 mmol/L or
calcium < 2 mmol/L because of the frequent problem of slight
contamination leading to surprising (but possible) abnormal results.
Despite our efforts to educate users on the correct order of draw, the
biochemistry sample is not always taken first.
Pauline Ridgwell
Consultant Clinical Biochemist
Luton & Dunstable Hospital
-----Original Message-----
From: Clinical biochemistry discussion list
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Rafaq Azad
Sent: 20 April 2011 10:01
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Sarstedt Gel tubes
Hi,
I encountered this recently and upon further investigation it turned out
that the RMO (Resident Medical Officer) was not aware of the correct
phlebotomy procedure (EDTA tubes taken before gel tubes). Are all your
"blood takers" aware of the correct procedure?
Regards,
Raf.
Rafaq Azad
Principal Clinical Biochemist / Scientific Coordinator Born in Bradford
Department of Clinical Biochemistry Bradford Royal Infirmary Duckworth
Lane Bradford
BD9 6RJ
Tel: 01274 382683
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
http://www.borninbradford.nhs.uk/
>>> Maria Fitzgibbon <[log in to unmask]> 19/04/2011 16:51 >>>
I would be grateful for feedback with respect to the incidence of
erroneously high potassiums particularly from those using the Sarstedt
gel tube. We regularly have to recall patients whose blood is taken in
the phlebotomy department, analysed promptly, and have raised
potassiums. Invariably, they repeat 1-1.5mmol lower.
I did not observe the same problem with BD tubes.
Many thanks,
Maria
Dr Maria Fitzgibbon, FRCPath,
Consultant Clinical Biochemist,
Head of Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Diagnostic Endocrinology,
Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles St, Dublin 7.
Tel: 0035318032423
email: [log in to unmask]
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