How should specimen tubes be mixed after collection, particularly with anti-coagulants?

Specimen tubes that contain anticoagulants must be mixed thoroughly to ensure that the blood is properly treated and that the anticoagulant is evenly distributed throughout the sample. Inverting gently is the recommended method for mixing these tubes because it allows for a thorough yet gentle blending of the blood with the anticoagulant without causing hemolysis or the formation of bubbles. Inversion helps to avoid clot formation, which can occur if the blood and anticoagulant are not adequately mixed.

Shaking vigorously can introduce air bubbles and may damage blood cells, leading to a compromised sample. Rolling between the palms may not be sufficient to achieve the necessary mixing of the anticoagulant with the blood. Stirring with a stick is not a common or safe practice, as it can introduce contamination or cause issues with blood cell integrity.

Inversion is a standardized practice in clinical laboratory settings to ensure high-quality specimens for accurate testing.