Haemolysis in neonatal blood samples: a survey of practice

Objective To survey how laboratories report, and neonatologists perceive them to report, the presence of haemolysis in neonatal blood samples. Methods A questionnaire was sent to clinical biochemists and neonatologists in 88 hospitals believed to be using Roche methodology. Results A 49% response rate was obtained. Seventeen hospitals were excluded from analysis owing to incomplete questionnaires or altered methodology. Of the remaining 71 hospitals, 30 (42%) laboratories and 18 (25%) neonatologists responded - where both responded, none gave identical replies. Eighteen laboratories admitted the use of serum indices to make decisions on haemolysed samples. Although recommended interference limits are available from Roche, there was little consensus between laboratories. Conclusions Laboratories should have clear guidelines on the processing of haemolysed samples from neonates and these should be adequately communicated to those responsible for their direct care.