Factors affecting all test performance

Underfilled, clotted or haemolysed samples will not be processed

Tubes must not be used after their expiry date

All tubes must be stored within the temperature range of 4-25°C before and after use

Lipaemic samples may be processed depending on test

See also further information on Haematology tubes

Factors affecting coagulation test performance only

Patients bled at GP Surgeries with abnormal coagulation results must have specimens for further investigations taken at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital Phlebotomy Department to ensure specimen integrity and rapid initial processing.

Blood tests taken at Bournemouth include:

• Lupus Anti-phospholipid Screen (Includes anticardiolipin, IgG/IgM and anti-B2 glycoprotein)
• Specialist Coagulation (Includes factor assays, anti-Xa)
• Thrombophilia Screen (Including requests for protein C, protein S, anti-thrombin III)

If peak measurement of anti-Xa level is required, please state this on the request form and collect the coagulation specimen four hours after the heparin infusion

There is no indication for vitamin K levels if the coagulation screen is normal

Vitamin K levels will only be sent away after referral by the Haemostasis and Thrombosis Consultant

Measurement of uncertainty

Measurement uncertainty has been determined for laboratory procedures

These estimates are available to users upon request. This supports transparency and informed clinical interpretation.

For qualitative tests, factors affecting the result are considered and steps taken to minimize the effect of any variables to ensure a standardized, consistent approach is maintained

Please contact the Haematology Manager if information on measurement uncertainty is required