1.
The most important step in the performance of a venipunture is_______.
Correct Answer
C. Identifying the patient
Explanation
Identifying the patient is the most important step in the performance of a venipuncture because it ensures that the correct patient is receiving the procedure. This is crucial for patient safety and to prevent any mix-ups or errors in the collection of samples or administration of treatments. Proper identification helps to avoid any potential harm or complications that may arise from performing the venipuncture on the wrong individual.
2.
The body system that filters blood to eliminate waste, helps maintain blood pH, and regulates water balance is the _______system.
Correct Answer
B. Urinary
Explanation
The urinary system is responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products, maintaining the pH balance of the blood, and regulating water balance in the body. It consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The kidneys filter waste products from the blood and produce urine, which is then excreted from the body. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and removing toxins from the body.
3.
Which of these needles has the smallest bore or diameter
Correct Answer
B. 23 gauge
Explanation
The needle with the smallest bore or diameter is the one with the highest gauge number. In this case, the needle with a 23 gauge has the smallest bore compared to the other options.
4.
A complete bood count (CBC) is collected in an evacuated tube with a ____colored stopper
Correct Answer
B. Lavender
Explanation
A complete blood count (CBC) is collected in an evacuated tube with a lavender colored stopper. This is because the lavender stopper indicates that the tube contains an anticoagulant called EDTA, which is used to prevent blood from clotting. EDTA is commonly used in CBC tests because it helps preserve the blood sample and keeps it in a liquid state, allowing accurate measurement of different blood components such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
5.
When performing a routine skin puncture, the side should be alcohol cleaned and___________.
Correct Answer
C. Allowed to air dry on its own
Explanation
When performing a routine skin puncture, it is important to clean the side with alcohol to disinfect it. After cleaning, the side should be allowed to air dry on its own. This is because allowing it to air dry helps to minimize the risk of introducing any contaminants or bacteria onto the puncture site. Using soap and water or iodine cleaning may not be necessary or recommended as they can potentially irritate the skin or interfere with the accuracy of the test results. Blowing dry to expedite things may introduce additional contaminants and is not a recommended practice.
6.
When using two glass slides to make a blood smear, the recommended angle of contact between them is approximately _______ degrees.
Correct Answer
C. 30
Explanation
When making a blood smear using two glass slides, it is recommended to have an angle of contact of approximately 30 degrees. This angle allows for the blood to spread evenly and thinly across the slide, making it easier to examine under a microscope. A larger angle may result in uneven distribution of the blood, while a smaller angle may cause the blood to clump together and make it difficult to analyze.
7.
An evacuated tube system for venipuncture consists of ALL BUT WHICH ONE of these components?
Correct Answer
C. Conpartmentalized hard shell collection tray
Explanation
The evacuated tube system for venipuncture consists of a vacuum collection tube with a color-coded stopper, a special plastic holder known as an adapter, and a double-sided, multi-sample needle with a slanted bore. The purpose of the collection tray is to organize and hold the various components of the system, but it is not a necessary component for the venipuncture process. Therefore, the conpartmentalized hard shell collection tray is the correct answer.
8.
Confirming an outpatient's name and ____________provides two important identifiers for blood collection.
Correct Answer
C. Date of birth
Explanation
Confirming an outpatient's name and date of birth provides two important identifiers for blood collection. The name ensures that the correct patient is being attended to, while the date of birth helps to further verify their identity and avoid any potential mix-ups or errors. This information is crucial in ensuring accurate and safe blood collection procedures.
9.
To draw blood from a patient with an open IV line, the selected site should be located_____.
Correct Answer
A. Below the IV
Explanation
When drawing blood from a patient with an open IV line, the selected site should be located below the IV. This is because drawing blood from above the IV can cause contamination of the blood sample with IV fluids, leading to inaccurate test results. Drawing blood from the IV tubing or in the antecubital fossa (inner elbow area) may also lead to contamination or interference with the IV line. Therefore, the best practice is to select a site below the IV to ensure a clean and accurate blood sample.
10.
Why does a multi-sample needle have a rubber sleeve over the end of the needle that is inserted into the collection tube?
Correct Answer
C. To prevent blood from seeping into the tube holder (adapter)
Explanation
The rubber sleeve over the end of the needle prevents blood from seeping into the tube holder (adapter). This is important because if blood were to seep into the adapter, it could contaminate the sample and potentially affect the accuracy of the test results. By preventing blood from entering the adapter, the rubber sleeve helps maintain the integrity of the sample and ensures reliable test results.
11.
Squeezing the finger too vigoroulsly during capillary blood collection can cause erroneous lab test results due to _________.
Correct Answer
D. Dilution with tissue fluid
Explanation
Squeezing the finger too vigorously during capillary blood collection can cause erroneous lab test results due to dilution with tissue fluid. When the finger is squeezed too hard, it can cause the tissue fluid to mix with the blood sample, leading to inaccurate test results. This dilution can affect the concentration of analytes in the blood, leading to false readings. It is important to collect capillary blood samples carefully, ensuring minimal contamination and accurate results.
12.
The smallest veins of the human anatomy are known as
Correct Answer
C. Venules
Explanation
Venules are small blood vessels that allow deoxygenated blood to return from the capillary beds to the larger veins. They are smaller than veins but larger than capillaries. Capillaries are even smaller and connect arterioles (small arteries) to venules. Arterioles, on the other hand, are small branches of arteries that lead to capillaries.
13.
Treating ALL lab speciments as if they are hazardous and infectious is the basis for________.
Correct Answer
D. Hazardous waste controls
Explanation
Treating all lab specimens as if they are hazardous and infectious is the basis for hazardous waste controls. This means that regardless of whether a specimen is actually hazardous or not, it is handled and disposed of as if it is, ensuring that proper safety measures are followed. This approach helps to minimize the risk of exposure to potentially dangerous substances and prevents the spread of infections in the laboratory setting. By treating all specimens as hazardous waste, labs can effectively manage and control the disposal of potentially harmful materials, ensuring the safety of both laboratory personnel and the environment.
14.
OSHA requires training and educational information be given to phlebotomists on all but which one of the following topics
Correct Answer
B. Preventing identification errors
Explanation
OSHA requires training and educational information to be given to phlebotomists on topics related to blood borne pathogens, needle safety and handling, and glass and sharps disposal. However, preventing identification errors is not specifically mentioned as a requirement by OSHA.
15.
Which of these elements in blood is bound by EDTA in a collection tube to prevent clotting?
Correct Answer
C. Calcium
Explanation
EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is a commonly used anticoagulant that prevents blood clotting by binding to calcium ions. Calcium is necessary for the clotting process, so by removing it from the blood, EDTA inhibits clot formation. Therefore, calcium is the element in blood that is bound by EDTA in a collection tube to prevent clotting.
16.
The hands of the phlebotomist should be washed _________.
Correct Answer
D. All answers are correct
Explanation
The correct answer is "all answers are correct" because it is important for the phlebotomist to wash their hands before specimen collection to prevent the transfer of any bacteria or contaminants. They should also wash their hands after specimen collection to remove any potential pathogens that may have been present on the gloves or hands. Even though gloves are used, hand washing is still necessary as gloves can sometimes develop small tears or punctures, exposing the phlebotomist to potential contamination. Therefore, all of the given answers are correct in emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene in phlebotomy.
17.
If a glass tube breaks during centrifugation, what sequence of actions would be best?
Correct Answer
C. Bring the centrifuge to a stop, open the lid and use forcepts to remove any glass
Explanation
In the event of a glass tube breaking during centrifugation, the safest sequence of actions would be to first bring the centrifuge to a stop to prevent any further movement or spinning. Then, open the lid of the centrifuge to gain access to the broken glass. Finally, carefully use forceps to remove any glass fragments from the centrifuge. This sequence ensures that the centrifuge is no longer in motion and reduces the risk of injury while removing the broken glass.
18.
Which of these is a common component of disinfectant solutions used for collection of blood cultures
Correct Answer
A. Chlorhexidine
Explanation
Chlorhexidine is a common component of disinfectant solutions used for the collection of blood cultures. It is a powerful antiseptic that is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is commonly used to clean the skin before invasive procedures, such as blood collection, to reduce the risk of infection. Chlorhexidine has strong antimicrobial properties and is known for its long-lasting effects, making it an ideal choice for disinfecting solutions used in the collection of blood cultures.
19.
If the information on a inpatients identification bracelet is NOT identical to the informaiton on the phlebotomy test requisiton and labels for that patient, the phlebotomis should_______.
Correct Answer
B. Refrain from drawing the sample until ID is resolved
Explanation
If the information on a patient's identification bracelet does not match the information on the phlebotomy test requisition and labels, the phlebotomist should refrain from drawing the sample until the ID is resolved. This is important to ensure that the correct patient is being tested and to avoid any potential mix-ups or errors in the testing process. It is crucial to have accurate and matching identification information before proceeding with any medical procedures.
20.
Before performing a venipuncture, why will a phlebotomist tie a tourniquet?
Correct Answer
C. To help locate veins in the antecubital
Explanation
A phlebotomist will tie a tourniquet before performing a venipuncture to help locate veins in the antecubital. By applying pressure to the area, the veins become more visible and easier to locate, making the process of finding a suitable vein for blood collection more efficient. This technique ensures that the phlebotomist can perform the venipuncture accurately and minimize any potential complications or discomfort for the patient.
21.
When a 5 milliliter evacuated tube appears to extact blood with too much force from a weak vein (causing the vein to collaps), the phlebotomist might have better results using a ________.
Correct Answer
C. Pediatric sized tube
Explanation
When a 5 milliliter evacuated tube appears to extract blood with too much force from a weak vein, it suggests that the vein is not able to withstand the suction created by the larger tube. In such cases, using a pediatric-sized tube, which has a smaller diameter, would be more appropriate. This smaller tube would create less suction and reduce the chances of the vein collapsing.
22.
To collect blood from a prothrobin time test, use and evacuated tube with ___________colored stopper.
Correct Answer
A. Light blue
Explanation
The correct answer is light blue because a prothrombin time test requires the use of an evacuated tube with a specific colored stopper. The light blue stopper indicates that the tube contains sodium citrate, which is an anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting. This is necessary for accurate measurement of prothrombin time, which assesses the blood's ability to clot. The use of a different colored stopper, such as red, green, or red and black, would not be appropriate for this specific test.
23.
To collect blood without an additive, use an evacuated tube with a ___________color stopper.
Correct Answer
B. Red
Explanation
The correct answer is red because red stoppers are commonly used for collecting blood without an additive. The color of the stopper indicates the type of tube and the additive present, and in this case, a red stopper indicates that the tube does not contain any additive.
24.
One beside (point of care) laboratory test that is used before surgery to check whether a patient has functional platelets is known as the ___________test.
Correct Answer
B. Bleeding time
Explanation
The correct answer is "bleeding time" because it is a laboratory test used to assess the function of platelets in a patient before surgery. This test measures the time it takes for bleeding to stop after a standardized skin incision is made. It helps determine if the patient has normal platelet function, which is essential for proper blood clotting. Prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and complete blood count are other laboratory tests that assess different aspects of blood clotting and do not specifically evaluate platelet function before surgery.
25.
Paul phlebotomist draws a CBC on patient fred jones, labels the lavender top tube and removes his gloves to go to lunch. Before he can leave, patient sam smith is sent to the phlebotomist to have a full lipid profile drawn. Paul puts on a brand new pair of gloves and draws a red top tube. He records the # hours postrandial. What step is missing?
Correct Answer
A. Hands weren't washed between
Explanation
The step that is missing is that Paul did not wash his hands between drawing the lavender top tube for Fred Jones and drawing the red top tube for Sam Smith. It is important to maintain proper hygiene and prevent cross-contamination by washing hands between different procedures or patients.
26.
Can a phlebotomist legally draw blood from a fully cognizant (awake and aware) patient who refuses to consent to it?
Correct Answer
A. No
Explanation
A phlebotomist cannot legally draw blood from a fully cognizant patient who refuses to consent to it. Informed consent is a fundamental principle in healthcare, and it is necessary for any medical procedure, including drawing blood. Without the patient's consent, it would be a violation of their autonomy and rights. Consent from a nurse, physician, or administrative personnel does not override the patient's right to refuse the procedure.
27.
Containers used to dispose of sharps must have all these charcteristics EXCEPT WHICH ONE?
Correct Answer
A. Mold resistance
Explanation
Containers used to dispose of sharps must have characteristics such as being spill proof, tamper proof, and puncture resistant. Mold resistance is not a necessary characteristic for these containers as it does not directly affect the disposal of sharps. Mold resistance is more relevant for items that may be stored for longer periods, such as food containers, where mold growth can be a concern.
28.
What consideration should be made in performing phlebotomy on a patient with severe burns?
Correct Answer
C. Look for a venipuncture site in udamaged, unscarred skin
Explanation
When performing phlebotomy on a patient with severe burns, it is important to look for a venipuncture site in undamaged, unscarred skin. This is because the burns may have damaged the veins in the affected area, making it difficult to obtain a blood sample or administer intravenous medications. Selecting a venipuncture location directly on the scarred tissue may result in further injury or complications. Cleansing the site with iodine is a standard practice to reduce the risk of infection during any venipuncture procedure.
29.
When performing veipuncture on patients with very frail skin or excessive arm hair, one way to increase patient comfort is to ___________.
Correct Answer
D. Tie tourniquets over clothing if possible
Explanation
When performing venipuncture on patients with very frail skin or excessive arm hair, tying tourniquets over clothing if possible can increase patient comfort. This is because tying the tourniquet over clothing can provide a cushioning effect, reducing the pressure on the skin and minimizing discomfort. Additionally, it can help prevent the tourniquet from directly contacting the skin, which may be sensitive or easily damaged.
30.
Which of the following steps will minimize aerosol microbial contamination in a laboratory?
Correct Answer
B. Closing centrifuge lids
Explanation
Closing centrifuge lids will minimize aerosol microbial contamination in a laboratory because when the lids are closed, any aerosols generated during the centrifugation process will be contained within the centrifuge, reducing the risk of contamination spreading to other areas of the laboratory.
31.
Speciment collection areas should be decontaminated regularly with fresh bleach solutions that have ben diluted ________with water.
Correct Answer
B. 1:10
Explanation
The correct answer is 1:10. This means that the bleach solution should be diluted with water in a ratio of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Diluting the bleach in this ratio ensures that it is not too concentrated and reduces the risk of damaging surfaces or harming individuals during decontamination. Regular decontamination with fresh bleach solutions helps to maintain a clean and safe environment in the specimen collection areas.
32.
What type of additive is most commonly used for collecting an ethanol speciment?
Correct Answer
C. Red top with no additive
Explanation
The most commonly used additive for collecting an ethanol specimen is a red top with no additive. This is because ethanol is volatile and can evaporate easily, so it is important to collect the specimen in a tube without any additives that could interfere with the analysis. The red top tube is specifically designed for this purpose, allowing for accurate measurement of ethanol levels in the specimen. Sodium fluoride and sodium citrate are commonly used additives for preserving glucose levels in blood samples, while EDTA is used for preserving whole blood samples for various laboratory tests.
33.
One possible cause for finding fibrin strands in serum tubes after centrifugation might be______.
Correct Answer
B. Centrifuging before it has clotted
Explanation
When blood is drawn into a serum tube, it needs time to clot before centrifugation. Centrifuging before the blood has clotted can lead to the presence of fibrin strands in the serum tubes. Clotting is necessary to separate the serum from the cellular components of the blood. If the blood is not allowed to clot properly before centrifugation, fibrin strands can form and become entangled with the serum, resulting in their presence in the tubes after centrifugation.
34.
Tubes used for ________tests must have a 9:1 ratio of blood to anticoagulant to be accepted by the labe.
Correct Answer
A. Coagulation
Explanation
Tubes used for coagulation tests must have a 9:1 ratio of blood to anticoagulant to be accepted by the lab. This is because coagulation tests require a specific amount of blood and anticoagulant to ensure accurate results. The 9:1 ratio helps prevent clotting of the blood sample, allowing for proper analysis of the coagulation process.
35.
After a needlestick accident during a blood collection, the injured phlebotomist cleans the punture site with alcohol and then reports to work for the remainder of the day. Which step was omitted?
Correct Answer
B. Reporting the incident to the supervisor
Explanation
The step that was omitted is reporting the incident to the supervisor. After a needlestick accident, it is important for the phlebotomist to report the incident to their supervisor in order to ensure proper documentation and follow-up actions can be taken. This is necessary for both the injured phlebotomist's safety and the overall safety of the workplace.
36.
When performing venipunture, the tourniquet must not remain on the arm for more than _________at a time.
Correct Answer
B. 1 minute
Explanation
During venipuncture, it is crucial to remove the tourniquet after a certain period to prevent complications. Leaving the tourniquet on the arm for more than 1 minute can lead to venous stasis, which can cause blood to pool in the veins and affect the accuracy of the blood sample. This can result in false test results and potential harm to the patient. Therefore, it is important to adhere to the recommended time limit of 1 minute to ensure the procedure is safe and effective.
37.
When preparing a blood smear directly from a skin puncture, it is best to_______.
Correct Answer
C. Wipe away the first drop of blood and then make the slide
Explanation
When preparing a blood smear directly from a skin puncture, it is best to wipe away the first drop of blood and then make the slide. This is because the first drop of blood may contain tissue fluid or contaminants that can interfere with the quality of the blood smear. By wiping away the first drop, a cleaner and more representative sample of blood can be obtained for making the slide.
38.
An artery in the wrist that can be used for blood gas collection is the _________.
Correct Answer
B. Radial
Explanation
The radial artery is located in the wrist and is commonly used for blood gas collection. This artery is easily accessible and provides accurate measurements of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Using the radial artery for blood gas collection is a common and convenient method in medical practice.
39.
Which of these human body systems is primarily involved with breathing?
Correct Answer
B. Respiratory
Explanation
The respiratory system is primarily involved with breathing. It consists of the lungs, airways, and respiratory muscles. When we breathe, air is drawn into the lungs, where oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is expelled. The respiratory system also helps regulate the body's pH levels by controlling the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood. The other systems listed - reproductive, nervous, and digestive - are not directly involved in the process of breathing.
40.
If the venipuncture site begins to swell as blood is being drawn from a patient's are, it is best to_____.
Correct Answer
C. Release the tourniquet, remove the needle and apply pressure
Explanation
If the venipuncture site begins to swell as blood is being drawn from a patient's arm, it is best to release the tourniquet, remove the needle and apply pressure. This is because the swelling indicates that there may be a hematoma or blood leakage at the puncture site. Releasing the tourniquet and removing the needle will help to stop the blood flow and prevent further swelling. Applying pressure afterwards will aid in the formation of a clot and minimize bleeding.
41.
A routine venipuncture draw site is commonly cleansed with a 70% solution of____________.
Correct Answer
D. Isopropyl alcohol
Explanation
A routine venipuncture draw site is commonly cleansed with a 70% solution of isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is a commonly used antiseptic that is effective in killing bacteria and reducing the risk of infection at the site. It is also safe to use on the skin and does not cause irritation or damage.
42.
When anticoagulated blood is centrifuged, ____________will be spun to the bottom of the tube.
Correct Answer
B. Red blood cells
Explanation
When anticoagulated blood is centrifuged, the components of the blood will separate based on their density. Red blood cells are denser than other components such as white blood cells, plasma, and platelet clumps. Therefore, during centrifugation, the red blood cells will settle to the bottom of the tube, while the less dense components will remain on top.
43.
Which PPE best protects a health care worker from contagion when touching body substances, mucous membranes, or skin wounds?
Correct Answer
A. Glove
Explanation
Gloves are the best form of personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect a healthcare worker from contagion when touching body substances, mucous membranes, or skin wounds. Gloves create a barrier between the healthcare worker's hands and the potentially infectious materials, preventing direct contact and reducing the risk of transmission. Masks, alcohol, and respirators do not provide the same level of protection for this specific scenario.
44.
The right to know law requires that all chemical manufacturers supply_________to those who use their products.
Correct Answer
A. Material safety data sheets (MSDS)
Explanation
The right to know law requires that all chemical manufacturers supply material safety data sheets (MSDS) to those who use their products. MSDS provide important information about the potential hazards of a chemical, including its physical and chemical properties, health effects, precautions for safe handling and use, and emergency procedures. This information is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals who work with or are exposed to these chemicals, as it allows them to understand and mitigate any potential risks. Therefore, providing MSDS is a legal requirement to promote transparency and protect the well-being of users.
45.
If a bed rail must be lowered for inpatient venipuncture on a 6-year-old child, upon completion of blood collection the phlebotomist should____________.
Correct Answer
C. Return rail to the position prior to the draw
Explanation
After completing the blood collection, it is important for the phlebotomist to return the bed rail to the position it was in before lowering it. This is done to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. Leaving the rail down may pose a risk of falling or injury, so it is not a suitable option. Asking the patient's preference may not be feasible or necessary in this situation. Doing whatever the phlebotomist believes is best may not be appropriate as it may not prioritize the child's safety. Therefore, the most appropriate action is to return the rail to its original position.
46.
Which of these is NOT an example of parenteral transmission of an infection
Correct Answer
D. Drinking contaminated water
Explanation
Parenteral transmission refers to the transfer of pathogens directly into the bloodstream through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, such as through needlestick injuries, cuts, or other injuries. Drinking contaminated water involves ingestion, which is an example of oral transmission, not parenteral.
47.
When drawing blood using anticoagulated tubes, the phlebotomist must remember ALL BUT WHICH ONE of these collection requirements?
Correct Answer
D. Keep the tourniquet tied until the last tube is filled
Explanation
The phlebotomist must remember to keep the tourniquet tied until the last tube is filled. This is incorrect because keeping the tourniquet tied for too long can cause hemoconcentration, leading to inaccurate test results. The tourniquet should be released after the first tube is filled to prevent this.
48.
Before performing a venipuncture, the collection site is cleansed in a circular motion that moves _________.
Correct Answer
B. From center to peripHery
Explanation
The correct answer is from center to periphery. This is the recommended technique for cleansing the collection site before performing a venipuncture. Starting from the center and moving outward helps to prevent contamination by pushing any potential microorganisms away from the puncture site.
49.
To confirm diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia, a _________may be ordered.
Correct Answer
D. Glucose tolerance test
Explanation
A glucose tolerance test may be ordered to confirm diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia. This test involves measuring blood glucose levels before and after consuming a specific amount of glucose. It helps evaluate the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels and diagnose conditions such as diabetes.
50.
A lipid panel provides the most useful information to the physicians if it is drawn__________.
Correct Answer
D. While a patient is fasting
Explanation
A lipid panel provides the most useful information to physicians when it is drawn while a patient is fasting. This is because fasting helps to obtain accurate measurements of lipid levels in the blood, as it eliminates the interference of recent food intake. When a patient fasts, it allows for a more accurate assessment of cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are important indicators of cardiovascular health. Therefore, fasting before a lipid panel ensures reliable results and aids in making appropriate medical decisions.