Why is it important to transport blood collections correctly?

Transporting blood collections correctly is crucial to maintain specimen integrity and ensure accurate test results. Blood samples are highly sensitive to various conditions such as temperature, light exposure, and agitation. Proper transport methods help prevent degradation or contamination of the sample, which could alter the test outcomes. For example, certain analytes may decrease or increase in concentration if the sample is exposed to inappropriate temperatures or not handled carefully. Maintaining the integrity of the specimen is essential for accurate diagnostics and effective patient care.

While making specimens visually appealing, minimizing transit time, and complying with regulations are relevant considerations, they are secondary to the primary concern of preserving the biological quality of the samples. A compromised specimen can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, making correct transport practices vital in the field of phlebotomy.