In reviewing a patient's APTT result, the clinical laboratory professional notes the presence of a delta flag.The patient's current APTT is 54 seconds, while the previous APTT (24 hrs ago) was 31 seconds (Note: QC was acceptable for both runs).Which is the most appropriate action?

Question

In reviewing a patient's APTT result, the clinical laboratory professional notes 	the presence of a delta flag.The patient's current APTT is 54 seconds, while the 	previous APTT (24 hrs ago) was 31 seconds (Note: QC was acceptable for both 	runs).Which is the most appropriate action?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of a delta flag and a significant increase in APTT suggests a potential pre-analytical error, such as clotting in the sample. Checking for clots is a logical first step.

In Reviewing a Patient's APTT Result, the Clinical Laboratory Professional