Hematology Interfering Factors: Hemolysis

Vastian Learning
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Continuing Education Credits

P.A.C.E.® Contact Hours: hour(s)

Florida Board of Clinical Laboratory Science CE Credit Hours

: hour(s)

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Objectives

  • Differentiate between in vivo and in vitro hemolysis and recognize common causes of each.
  • Identify the typical effects of hemolysis on complete blood count (CBC) parameters, including red blood cell count, hematocrit, mean cell hemoglobin, mean cell hemoglobin concentration, and platelet count.
  • Recognize laboratory clues that suggest hemolytic interference, including specimen appearance, analyzer flags, delta checks, and peripheral smear findings.
  • Correlate CBC results, smear findings, and other available laboratory data to determine whether hemolysis is more likely in vivo or in vitro.
  • Describe appropriate troubleshooting and reporting actions for a suspected hemolyzed specimen according to laboratory procedure.

Course Outline

  • Hematology Interfering Factors: Hemolysis
    • Hematology Interfering Factors
    • Hemolysis
    • Why Hemolysis Interferes With a CBC
    • Understanding CBC Results
    • Recognizing Hemolysis Interference
    • The Role of the Peripheral Blood Smear
    • Troubleshooting a Suspected Hemolyzed Specimen
    • Pre-Examination Considerations
    • Reporting Considerations
    • Key Takeaways
  • References
    • References

Additional Information

This is a mini course designed to enhance learning and reinforce existing knowledge. It does not provide continuing education (CE) credit. The purpose of this course is to support ongoing professional development and review.