A comparison of hemolysis rates using intravenous catheters versus venipuncture tubes for obtaining blood samples.

Author(s): Kennedy C, Angermuller S, King R, Noviello S, Walker J, Warden J, Vang S

Publication: J Emerg Nurs, 1996, Vol. 22, Page 566-9

PubMed ID: 9060320 PubMed Review Paper? No

Purpose of Paper

Conclusion of Paper

Studies

1. Study Purpose

   The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of using venipuncture versus IV catheter for specimen collection and IV catheter diameter on blood hemolysis rates in specimens from emergency department patients.

   Summary of Findings:

   Hemolysis rates were higher in specimens obtained by IV catheter (13.7%) than by Vacutainer venipuncture (3.8%), but blood specimens were unable to be obtained by venipuncture in 7 of 85 patients. Hemolysis rates were increased in specimens obtained with higher gauge catheters (smaller diameters) (p=0.047), however, sample size was variable for each catheter gauge with only 1 and 4 specimens obtained using 24 gauge (100% hemolysis) and 22 gauge (25% hemolysis) catheters, respectively, while 39 and 40 specimens were obtained using 20 gauge (15% hemolysis) and 18 gauge (10% hemolysis) catheters, respectively.

   Biospecimens

   • Bodily Fluid - Blood

   Preservative Types

   • None (Fresh)

   Diagnoses:

   • Not specified

   Platform:

   Analyte	Technology Platform
   Cell count/volume	Macroscopic observation

   Pre-analytical Factors:

   Classification	Pre-analytical Factor	Value(s)
   Biospecimen Acquisition	Method of fluid acquisition	IV catheter Venipuncture
   Biospecimen Acquisition	Cannulation	14 gauge catheter 16 gauge catheter 18 gauge catheter 20 gauge catheter 22 gauge catheter 24 gauge catheter

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