Perbedaan Kadar Bilirubin Total Pada Sampel Serum Yang Segera Diperiksa Dan Ditunda 30 Menit

Background: Total bilirubin testing in clinical laboratories is an important indicator of liver function, but it is highly sensitive to light and temperature. The pre-analytical phase plays a crucial role, as approximately 60–70% of laboratory errors occur at this stage due to improper specimen handling. Delayed testing caused by equipment or personnel limitations may reduce bilirubin levels and affect result accuracy.
Objective: To determine the difference in total bilirubin levels between serum samples tested immediately and those tested after a 30-minute delay.
Methods: This observational analytic study used a cross-sectional design. A total of 37 subjects aged 18–31 years were selected using a total sampling technique. The study was conducted at the Public Health Laboratory Centre (BBLKM). Data were analysed using a Paired Sample T-Test with a 95% confidence level.
Result: The average total bilirubin level in serum samples tested immediately was 0.61 mg/dL, while in those tested after a 30-minute delay it was 0.47 mg/dL. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the two conditions.
Conclusion: There is a significant difference in total bilirubin levels between serum samples tested immediately and those tested after a 30-minute delay with p = 0.000 (< 0.05).
Suggestion: Future research is recommended to use alternative testing methods and consider other influencing variables such as temperature, light exposure, and storage time, which may affect total bilirubin levels.