When hemolysis occurs, the sample color changes to what?

• A. Turns pink
• B. Turns blue
• C. Turns yellow
• D. Remains red

Answer: (A)

Hemolysis releases hemoglobin from ruptured red blood cells into the plasma, coloring the liquid portion pink. In a mildly hemolyzed sample you’ll see a pink tint in the serum/plasma; with more hemolysis it can look red. It would not turn blue or yellow from hemolysis, and a non-hemolyzed sample would keep the usual clear to pale yellow appearance.