Here are some of the factors which could affect the results or processing of coagulation tests. This is not an exhaustive list. There may be other factors affecting the reporting of results which are not listed. Also see a list of factors affecting all sections of the haematology department.
Test | Factors affecting result/processing | Outcome |
Routine clotting tests | Under filled sample | Would not process |
Routine clotting tests | Haemolysis |
Would process. Depending on degree of haemolysis an estimated result may be reported off the analyser with a comment ‘? validity of result due to haemolysis’ |
Routine clotting tests | Lipaemia |
Would process. Depending on the degree of lipaemia an estimated result may be reported off the analyser with a comment ‘? validity of result due to lipaemia’ |
All clotting tests | Clotted | Would not process |
Clotting assays | Secondary clot in frozen sample | Depending on size of clot would process and add comment ‘? Validity due to secondary clot’ or would not process and add comment ‘Clotted’ |
(Last reviewed November 2019)