Which step helps prevent clotting in additive tubes?

Which step helps prevent clotting in additive tubes?

• A. Delayed mixing
• B. Gentle inversion immediately after collection
• C. Let blood stand then mix
• D. Shake vigorously

Answer: (B)

The step that prevents clotting in additive tubes is to gently invert the tube immediately after collection to mix the blood with the additive. This ensures the anticoagulant is evenly distributed from the start, neutralizing calcium or inhibiting clotting factors so the coagulation cascade doesn’t proceed and a clot doesn’t form. If mixing is delayed or blood is left to stand, the coagulation cascade can begin, leading to clot formation and poor sample quality. Gentle inversion provides thorough mixing without causing damage to cells; shaking vigorously can cause hemolysis or sample disruption and isn’t an effective or safe way to ensure proper mixing.

The step that prevents clotting in additive tubes is to gently invert the tube immediately after collection to mix the blood with the additive. This ensures the anticoagulant is evenly distributed from the start, neutralizing calcium or inhibiting clotting factors so the coagulation cascade doesn’t proceed and a clot doesn’t form.

If mixing is delayed or blood is left to stand, the coagulation cascade can begin, leading to clot formation and poor sample quality. Gentle inversion provides thorough mixing without causing damage to cells; shaking vigorously can cause hemolysis or sample disruption and isn’t an effective or safe way to ensure proper mixing.