Red is widely considered to be the first colour used by early humans, in the form of iron oxide-rich ochres dug from the earth. It is connected with strong emotions and signals danger, an association shared across cultures – around the world, red is the most common colour used for warning and stop signs. Throughout history, artists have used red pigments gleaned from a variety of sources. Modern developments in organic and inorganic chemistry have now seen the red pigment family become one of th

Hemolysis starts at the time of draw, not in the lab. When we see that bright red, transparent plasma or serum layer, it usually means red blood cells were destroyed before the sample ever made it to the analyzer. That breakdown releases hemoglobin into the plasma, which can throw off tests for potassium, LDH, AST, bilirubin, and more. Common causes at the time of draw: • Using too small of a needle (too much suction = RBC trauma) • Pulling the syringe plunger too fast • Shaking the tube instead