How should tubes with an additive be handled to ensure proper mixing?

To ensure proper mixing of tubes with an additive, the correct approach is to invert the tubes the appropriate number of times. This method allows the additive to interact effectively with the blood sample, promoting adequate mixing without causing hemolysis or damaging blood cells. Each additive has a specified number of inversions that are necessary to mix the sample thoroughly, which helps achieve accurate test results.

Inverting the tubes instead of shaking them vigorously reduces the risk of cell destruction, which can occur with too much agitation. Allowing the tubes to stand without action or filling them without further steps would lead to inadequate mixing, potentially resulting in clotted samples or insufficient interaction between the sample and the additive. Therefore, following the correct inversion protocol is crucial for the integrity of the sample and the reliability of laboratory results.