If you mix a specimen too vigorously, you may damage the cells and cause them to release their contents. This can lead to inaccurate results and potentially skew your data. Additionally, if you are working with cultures or other living organisms, you can accidently break them apart and contaminate your sample. In some cases, you may also end up with foam or an emulsion, making it difficult to obtain a clear reading.
What are some of the signs that a specimen has been mixed too vigorously?
When mixing a specimen, there are a few signs that indicate the mixture has been too vigorous. The first sign is if the mixture is too frothy or bubbly. This usually happens if the mixture has been whipped or beaten too much, causing too much air to be incorporated into the mixture. Another sign that the mixture has been too vigorous is if it is difficult to pour or spread. This can happen if the mixture is too thick or if the ingredients have not been fully incorporated and are separating. Finally, if the mixture is too thin or runny, this can also be a sign that the mixing has been too vigorous. This usually happens if the mixture has been over-stirred, causing the ingredients to break down too much and release too much liquid.
What are some of the ways in which mixing a specimen too vigorously can impact the results of a test?
There are a few different ways that mixing a specimen too vigorously can impact the results of a test. The first way is that it can cause the cells to break open and release their contents into the surrounding liquid. This can skew the results of tests that are looking for specific components within the cells. Additionally, it can cause foam to form on the surface of the liquid, which can prevent proper mixing of the reagents and also skew the results. Finally, it can simply introduce too much air into the mixture, which can again prevent proper mixing and cause the results to be inaccurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can we prevent errors during specimen collection and processing?
Use proper safety techniques when collecting specimens from patients. For example, avoid having specimens from multiple patients in the active work area at the same time. Also, avoid using strips of labels from a label printer with labels for multiple patients that must be matched to specimens. Unused labels should be destroyed before proceeding to the next patient.
What are the factors that can affect the results of tests?
The most common factors that can affect the results of laboratory tests are: diet, starvation, exercise, posture, daily and seasonal variations, menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Can high tech solve the problem of mislabeled specimens?
Yes, high tech may be able to solve the problem of mislabeled specimens. Our laboratory has invented one high tech solution that we believe will bring our own error rate for mislabeled specimens to near zero and which, with further refinement, may become suitable for use on commercial automation systems.
How can I reduce sample collection errors?
1. Always check the patient’s identity to ensure the sample is collected from the correct patient. 2. Ensure the correct bottle is selected for the test(s) requested. Many sample tubes contain preservatives or anticoagulants.
What are the most common errors in specimen collection and handling?
Clotting, inaccurate volume, and exposure to temperature extremes are the most common errors in specimen collection and handling.
