1.
A tourniment should be applied:
Correct Answer
C. Away from open sores
Explanation
The tourniquet should be applied away from open sores to prevent any potential contamination or infection. Placing the tourniquet directly over an open sore could introduce bacteria or other pathogens into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of complications. Therefore, it is important to apply the tourniquet at a safe distance from any open sores to maintain proper hygiene and ensure the safety of the patient.
2.
The following tests have all been ordered at the same time on different inpatients. There is only one phlebotomist on duty. Which test would the phlebotomist collect first?
Correct Answer
C. STAT electrolytes in the ER
Explanation
The phlebotomist would collect the STAT electrolytes in the ER first because STAT tests are ordered for emergency situations and require immediate attention. In the ER, time is of the essence and prompt results are crucial for making critical decisions regarding patient care. The other tests, such as the ASAP CBC in oncology, Routine Hgb in long-term care, and Timed blood culture in ICU, can be prioritized after the STAT electrolytes test is completed.
3.
Which of the following should be used to enhance the vein selection process?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
All of the above options should be used to enhance the vein selection process. Having the patient make a fist helps to engorge the veins and make them more visible and accessible. Lowering the arm can also help increase blood flow to the veins. Palpating the antecubital area allows the healthcare professional to feel for the most suitable vein for venipuncture. Using a warm towel can help dilate the blood vessels and improve blood flow, making it easier to locate and access a vein. Therefore, all of these techniques can be used together to enhance the vein selection process.
4.
Before obtaining a blood specimen from a child, you must do all of the follow except:
Correct Answer
C. Tell the child it won't hurt
Explanation
In order to obtain a blood specimen from a child, it is important to establish rapport with both the child and parent, greet them to create a comfortable environment, and inform the child about what to expect during the procedure. However, telling the child that it won't hurt is not necessary as it may create false expectations and cause anxiety if the child does experience some discomfort. It is important to be honest and reassure the child that the procedure will be done quickly and with minimal pain.
5.
You arrive to draw a "fast specimen." The patient is just finishing a big breakfast. What do you do?
Correct Answer
A. Check with the patient's nurse first to see if the specimen should be collected
Explanation
It is important to check with the patient's nurse first to see if the specimen should be collected because the fact that the patient just finished a big breakfast may affect the accuracy and interpretation of the test results. Certain tests require the patient to be in a fasting state to ensure accurate results. The nurse will have the necessary information and can provide guidance on whether the specimen should be collected or not.
6.
What may happen if you mix tubes too vigorously?
Correct Answer
B. Hemolysis
Explanation
Vigorous mixing of tubes can cause hemolysis, which is the rupture or destruction of red blood cells. This can lead to the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid, resulting in a pink or red discoloration. Hemolysis can occur due to the mechanical stress placed on the blood cells during vigorous mixing, causing them to break apart. This can be problematic in laboratory settings as it can interfere with accurate test results, especially those that rely on intact red blood cells.
7.
Never leave a tourniquet on for more than:
Correct Answer
C. 1 minute / 60 seconds
Explanation
Leaving a tourniquet on for too long can cause tissue damage and other complications. The correct answer is 1 minute or 60 seconds because it is the recommended maximum time to leave a tourniquet on before releasing it to restore blood flow to the affected area. This allows for adequate blood supply while minimizing the risk of complications.
8.
How can you tell that you are in a vein when using a needle and a syringe?
Correct Answer
D. You should see blood appear in the hub of the needle
Explanation
When using a needle and a syringe, one can tell that they are in a vein if they see blood appear in the hub of the needle. This indicates that the needle has successfully punctured a vein and blood is flowing into the syringe. This visual confirmation is an important indicator for medical professionals to ensure accurate administration of medications or drawing blood samples.
9.
What is the most critical error a phlebotomist can make?
Correct Answer
D. Misidentifying a patient specimen
Explanation
Misidentifying a patient specimen is the most critical error a phlebotomist can make because it can lead to serious consequences such as misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment, or even harm to the patient. Proper identification of patient specimens is crucial to ensure accurate test results and proper patient care. Failing to obtain a specimen or collecting a timed specimen late may cause inconvenience or delay in the testing process, while giving a patient hematoma can cause discomfort or pain, but these errors are not as severe as misidentifying a patient specimen.
10.
If a patient adamantly refuses to have blood drawn you should
Correct Answer
D. Write a note to the pHysician or nurse
Explanation
If a patient adamantly refuses to have blood drawn, the most appropriate action would be to write a note to the physician or nurse. This is because the patient's refusal should be documented and communicated to the healthcare team. The physician or nurse can then evaluate the situation and determine the best course of action, which may involve alternative methods or approaches to obtaining the necessary blood sample. It is important to respect the patient's autonomy and communicate their refusal to the appropriate healthcare professionals for further assessment and decision-making.
11.
What would be the system of choice to identify laboratory specimens from an unconscious, unidentified woman in the emergency room?
Correct Answer
C. Use a three-part identification band and label
Explanation
The system of choice to identify laboratory specimens from an unconscious, unidentified woman in the emergency room would be to use a three-part identification band and label. This system ensures that the specimens are properly labeled with the patient's information, including their name, identification number, and any other relevant details. This helps to avoid any confusion or mix-ups with the specimens and ensures accurate tracking and identification of the patient's samples.
12.
A phlebotomist needs to collect a blood specimen for complete blood count. The patient has IV lines in both arms. Both IV lines are located below the antecubital area. What should the phlebotomist do?
Correct Answer
C. Collect the specimen by finger puncture
Explanation
The phlebotomist should collect the blood specimen by finger puncture because both IV lines are located below the antecubital area. This means that the veins in the antecubital area may not be accessible due to the IV lines, so the phlebotomist should use an alternative method to collect the blood sample. Finger puncture allows for the collection of a small amount of blood from the fingertip, which can be used for various tests including a complete blood count.
13.
Test are classified as routine if they are ordered
Correct Answer
B. In the start to establish a diagnosis
Explanation
Routine tests are ordered at the start of a patient's evaluation to establish a diagnosis. These tests help healthcare professionals gather important information about the patient's condition and determine the underlying cause of their symptoms. By conducting these tests early on, medical professionals can make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan for the patient.
14.
You arrive to draw a specimen on an inpatient. The patient's door is closed. What do you do?
Correct Answer
A. Knock softly and open the door slowly, checking to see if it is all right to enter
Explanation
It is important to respect the privacy and personal space of the patient. By knocking softly and opening the door slowly, you are being considerate and ensuring that the patient is comfortable with your presence before entering. This approach allows you to gauge the patient's response and obtain permission to enter the room.
15.
It is important to mix anticoagulant tubes immediately after filling them in order to:
Correct Answer
D. Prevent microclot formation.
Explanation
Mixing anticoagulant tubes immediately after filling them helps prevent the formation of microclots. Microclots can form when blood is stagnant or not properly mixed, leading to inaccurate test results and potentially blocking the flow of blood through the tube. By mixing the anticoagulant tubes, the anticoagulant is evenly distributed, preventing the formation of clots and ensuring the integrity of the blood sample for testing purposes.
16.
You must collect a specimen on a 3 year old. The child is a little fearful. What do you do?
Correct Answer
A. Explain what you are going to do in simple terms and ask the child for cooperation.
Explanation
The best approach in this situation is to explain what you are going to do in simple terms and ask the child for cooperation. By doing so, you can help alleviate the child's fear and anxiety by providing them with a clear understanding of the procedure. This approach promotes trust and allows the child to feel more comfortable and willing to cooperate during the specimen collection process. It is important to communicate effectively with children, especially when they are fearful, in order to create a positive and supportive environment for their healthcare experience.
17.
The patient asks if the test advised is for diabetes. How do you answer?
Correct Answer
D. Tell the patient that it's best to discuss the test with his or her pHysician
Explanation
The best course of action in this situation is to advise the patient to discuss the test with their physician. As a healthcare professional, it is important to provide accurate and reliable information to patients. In this case, since the patient specifically asks if the test is for diabetes, it is best to defer to the physician who can provide a comprehensive explanation and address any concerns or questions the patient may have. This ensures that the patient receives the most appropriate and personalized guidance regarding their healthcare.
18.
An unconscious patient does not have an ID band. The name and room
number on the door agree with the requisition. What should you do?
Correct Answer
B. Do not draw the patient until the nurse has applied an ID bracelet
Explanation
It is important to ensure the correct identification of a patient before any medical procedure, including drawing blood. In this scenario, the absence of an ID band indicates that the patient has not been properly identified. Therefore, it is necessary to wait for the nurse to apply an ID bracelet before proceeding with any procedures to avoid any potential errors or complications.
19.
A hematoma may result from all of the following except:
Correct Answer
C. The tourniquet is released before needle withdrawal.
Explanation
A hematoma is a localized collection of blood outside the blood vessels, usually caused by damage to the vessel wall during venipuncture. The correct answer states that a hematoma may result from all of the given options except for the tourniquet being released before needle withdrawal. Releasing the tourniquet before withdrawing the needle helps to prevent the formation of a hematoma by reducing the pressure in the veins and allowing blood flow to return to normal. Therefore, this action does not contribute to the formation of a hematoma.
20.
What is the purpose of waiting 30 sec for the alcohol to dry before needle insertion?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
Waiting 30 seconds for the alcohol to dry before needle insertion serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows the evaporation process to help destroy microbes, reducing the risk of infection. Secondly, it helps to avoid a stinging sensation that may occur if the alcohol is not fully dry. Lastly, it helps to prevent hemolysis of the specimen, which can occur if alcohol comes into contact with the blood sample. Therefore, all of the given options are valid reasons for waiting for the alcohol to dry before needle insertion.