Frequency and Associated Factors of Clotted and Hemolyzed Samples in South Gonder Hospitals, Ethiopia: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study, 2023.

BACKGROUND

Accurate hematological analysis relies heavily on the integrity of blood samples, which can be compromised by pre-analytical errors such as hemolysis and clotting. This study aimed to determine the frequency and associated factors of clotted and hemolyzed samples in selected hospitals in South Gonder, Ethiopia.

METHODS

This institutionally based cross-sectional study was conducted from September to December 2023 in northwestern Ethiopia at the medical hematology laboratories of selected South Gonder Zone hospitals. Debre Tabor's specialized referral hospital was selected. Addis Zemen and Nefas Mewcha primary hospitals were chosen at random.

RESULTS

Among the 2331 test samples, 829 (35.6%) were clotted, and 269 (11.5%) were hemolyzed. We found a significant association of clotting with contamination, inadequate sample volume, puncture site other than the median cubital region, more than three attempts to collect blood, and the use of a partially filled collection tube when attempting another vein puncture.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of our observations, the findings presented here have a significant impact on patient diagnosis and treatment, leading to delayed or inaccurate diagnoses, inappropriate treatment decisions, increased risk of adverse events, and increased healthcare costs.