Which of the following is a common rejection criterion for phlebotomy specimens?

• A. Capillary collection
• B. Delayed processing
• C. Proper labeling
• D. Hemolysis

Answer: (D)

Hemolysis is a common rejection criterion because when red blood cells rupture in the sample, free hemoglobin and intracellular components mix into the plasma or serum. That rupture alters many test results and can cause inaccurate values, so the specimen is often deemed unusable and a redraw is requested with gentler collection techniques to prevent further cell damage. Capillary collection is simply a collection method used in certain situations and isn’t by itself a rejection trigger. Proper labeling, while essential for identifying the specimen, doesn’t reflect the integrity of the sample and isn’t the type of issue that causes rejection due to damage like hemolysis. Delayed processing can affect some tests, but hemolysis is the more universally recognized factor that leads to rejection across many assays.