The accuracy of blood potassium test results is crucial for disease diagnosis in clinical laboratory work. When there is a high level of blood potassium, inspectors often trace the entire testing process. Many people first suspect whether the coagulant in the blood collection tube has affected the test results. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the true causes of deviations in blood potassium testing, helping laboratory personnel establish a scientific approach to troubleshooting.

blood coagulation

The mechanism of action and component analysis of coagulants

The main function of coagulants is to accelerate the process of blood coagulation, and their common components include silica powder, thrombin, etc. These components exert their effects by providing a coagulation reaction surface or directly activating coagulation factors. From a chemical perspective, mainstream coagulants are stable in composition, do not contain potassium elements, and do not undergo chemical reactions with potassium ions in the blood. The target of action of coagulants is clear, mainly targeting the coagulation system, and will not directly cause the rupture of blood cells or the release of potassium ions inside cells. Therefore, simply attributing the deviation of blood potassium to coagulants lacks scientific basis.

The main influencing factors of blood potassium deviation

The common cause of deviation in blood potassium testing is hemolysis. When red blood cells rupture, potassium ions inside the cells (with a concentration about 20-30 times higher than outside the cells) will be released in large quantities into the serum, leading to a false increase in test results. In addition to hemolysis, there are other important factors that can affect the accuracy of blood potassium testing:

1. Improper sample handling: Failure to gently invert and mix 5-8 times as required after blood collection, instead vigorously shaking the blood collection tube, may cause mechanical hemolysis.

2. Improper transportation and storage conditions: Exposure of samples to excessively high or low temperature environments, or severe vibrations, can increase the risk of hemolysis.

3. Deviation in the detection process: Factors such as instrument status, reagent expiration date, and operating procedures may all affect the final results.

Key control points for sample processing

Standardized sample processing is an important step in ensuring the accuracy of blood potassium testing. After blood collection, gently invert and mix immediately to ensure full contact between the coagulant and the blood. When mixing, avoid vigorous shaking to prevent mechanical force from damaging blood cells. After sample collection, centrifugal separation should be completed within the specified time, and it is usually recommended to process it within 1-2 hours after blood collection. If temporary storage is required, it should be ensured that the storage temperature is appropriate (usually 2-8 ℃) to avoid further impact of cell metabolism on potassium ion concentration.

Establish a scientific deviation investigation process

When abnormal blood potassium results occur, it is recommended to follow the following procedure for investigation: first, visually observe whether there are signs of hemolysis in the sample, and then review the sample information to confirm the patient's pre blood collection status (whether they have been exercising vigorously, whether they have used certain drugs, etc.). Then check the status of the detection system to confirm that the instrument is running normally and the reagent performance is reliable. Finally, consider whether a re examination of blood collection is necessary. Establishing a systematic troubleshooting process can effectively identify the true cause and avoid misjudgment.

Product packaging

Hubei Xindesheng Material Technology Co., Ltd. has been deeply involved in the field of in vitro diagnostics for many years. Its produced coagulants have undergone strict quality control and performance verification, with clear composition and stable properties. Xindesheng can provide comprehensive technical support services to help laboratories establish standardized operating procedures and quality control systems. If you encounter any problems with blood potassium testing or the use of blood collection tube additives, please feel free to contact Xindesheng for professional technical support.