What does hemolysis refer to?

Hemolysis refers specifically to the destruction of red blood cells, which results in the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid. This process can occur due to various factors, such as mechanical trauma during blood collection, exposure to certain substances, or improper handling of the blood sample. When red blood cells break down, hemoglobin is released, which can interfere with various laboratory tests, leading to inaccurate results. Understanding hemolysis is crucial for phlebotomists, as it directly impacts the quality of the blood sample and the reliability of test outcomes, emphasizing the importance of proper collection techniques and sample handling in a clinical setting.

The other options describe different processes that are not related to the breakdown of red blood cells. Bruising occurs at the puncture site due to local damage to the tissues, while separation of plasma and blood cells is a part of the blood centrifugation process. Coagulation refers to the blood clotting process, which is entirely different from the destruction of cells.