Which analyte level would be affected by a delay in centrifugation?

A delay in centrifugation can significantly impact the level of ionized calcium in a blood sample. Ionized calcium represents the biologically active form of calcium that is essential for numerous physiological functions. When blood is left to stand, it undergoes clotting, which consumes calcium and alters the balance of ions in the serum. The clotting process can lead to a decrease in the concentration of ionized calcium as it becomes trapped in the coagulum. Consequently, an inaccurate measurement may result from this delay.

In contrast, other analytes such as sodium, glucose, and chloride are less affected by delays in centrifugation. While glucose can show changes due to glycolysis if the sample is not processed quickly, its primary disturbance isn't directly related to centrifugation alone. Sodium and chloride levels are stable in serum and are not significantly influenced by delays before centrifugation. Thus, ionized calcium is the analyte most likely to be altered by this delay, highlighting its sensitivity to pre-analytical handling factors.