There is a significance of tube selection in precisely determining hemolysis-susceptible parameters and guaranteeing dependable clinical laboratory analysis. This is supported by a journal from Saenger, et.al. (2023) stating that compared to serum tubes, lithium-heparin plasma tubes are more prone to hemolysis. This could be because erythrocytes in anticoagulated lithium heparin tubes move more readily than in coagulated serum samples. Hemolysis could happen if anticoagulated plasma tubes are not completely filled and then transported. This is because air bubbles could enter the sample and provide extra hydrodynamic strain on the erythrocytes. Thus, utilizing smaller or fully filled sample tubes could limit hemolysis. The matrix effect, particularly in the context of clinical laboratory analysis, refers to how different types of blood collection tubes or additives can influence the results of certain lab tests. This effect is especially crucial for hemolysis-susceptible parameters, as hemolysis can significantly alter test results leading to inaccuracy of results, incorrect clinical interpretation, and patient safety

Reference:

Saenger, J. A., Atamaniuk, J., Gaggl, M., Asenbaum, J., Huber, F. A., Grieb, A., & Födinger, M. (2023). Increased hemolysis rate in plasma tubes after implementation of a fully automated sample delivery and acceptance system. Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 47(2), 63–68. https://doi.org/10.1515/labmed-2022-0154