Final answer:
Vigorously shaking the collection tube can cause a hemolyzed specimen, which results from the rupturing of red blood cells. Gentle inversion is recommended, and clotting of the specimen is part of normal serum preparation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A hemolyzed specimen is a sample of blood that has undergone hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells. This can happen for a variety of reasons during blood sample collection and handling. Answering the given question, C) Shaking the collection tube vigorously can cause hemolysis.
Shaking can damage the fragile red blood cells, leading to their rupture and release of hemoglobin into the plasma or serum, which is indicative of a hemolyzed specimen. Inverting the specimen gently, as in option A, is actually recommended to mix anticoagulants and other additives with the blood. Partially filling the collection tube, option B, does not directly cause hemolysis, but it can lead to incorrect blood-to-additive ratios and potential testing issues. Lastly, allowing the specimen to clot, option D, would not cause hemolysis; instead, it is part of the process of serum preparation unless the specific test required whole blood or anticoagulated plasma.