DefinePK

Research Objective

To observe the effect of delayed serum separation on various chemistry analytes.

Methodology

Quasi-experimental study involving 50 healthy volunteers (age 25-55 years, both genders). Blood samples were collected and divided into three tubes. One tube was analyzed at 1 hour, the second at 2 hours, and the third at 4 hours after collection for glucose, urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium. Data was analyzed using SPSS Software 23, with a p-value < 0.05 considered significant.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A["Recruit 50 Healthy Volunteers"] --> B["Collect Blood Samples"];
    B --> C["Divide into 3 Tubes"];
    C --> D["Analyze Tube 1 at 1 Hour"];
    C --> E["Analyze Tube 2 at 2 Hours"];
    C --> F["Analyze Tube 3 at 4 Hours"];
    D --> G["Record Results"];
    E --> G;
    F --> G;
    G --> H["Analyze Data using SPSS"];
    H --> I["Identify Significant Variations"];
    I --> J["Draw Conclusions"];                    

Discussion

Delayed serum separation can lead to pre-analytical variations in analyte levels, potentially affecting diagnostic accuracy. The study highlights the importance of immediate sample transportation and processing within 2 hours to ensure reliable test results. Glycolysis contributes to glucose decrease, while electrolyte increases are attributed to prolonged serum-clot contact time.

Key Findings

Glucose, ALT, sodium, potassium, and chloride showed statistically significant variations over time with delayed serum separation. Glucose decreased, while sodium, potassium, and chloride increased significantly. ALT also showed a significant increase. Urea, creatinine, AST, ALP, and calcium remained relatively stable for up to 4 hours.

Conclusion

Blood samples should be transported to the laboratory immediately and processed within 2 hours of receipt. Delayed transportation and separation significantly impact several chemistry analytes, potentially leading to erroneous test results and affecting patient diagnosis and care.

Fact Check

1. Study Period: The study was conducted from December 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022. (Confirmed in text)
2. Number of Volunteers: Fifty healthy volunteers were included in the study. (Confirmed in text)
3. Significant Analytes: Glucose, ALT, sodium, potassium, and chloride showed statistically significant variation over time. (Confirmed in text)

Mind Map