What complication may arise if a blood specimen is not mixed adequately after collection?

Inadequate mixing of a blood specimen after collection can lead to clot formation or insufficient sample representation. When blood is drawn, it contains a mixture of cells and plasma. If the specimen is not mixed thoroughly, some of the cellular components may settle at the bottom of the collection tube, leading to an uneven distribution of cells. This can result in an inaccurate test outcome since laboratory tests often rely on the proper proportions of blood components.

Clot formation is particularly concerning because it can obstruct the analysis process, especially for tests that require liquid plasma or serum for accurate measurement. If clots develop, they can interfere with automated analyzers, potentially causing the equipment to malfunction or produce erroneous results. Therefore, for accurate and reliable test results, it is essential that the blood specimen is mixed adequately to prevent these complications.