1.
When properly anchoring a vein, the:
Correct Answer
C. Thumb is 1 to 2 in. Below the intended site and is pulling the skin toward the wrist.
Explanation
When properly anchoring a vein, the thumb should be positioned 1 to 2 inches below the intended site and pulling the skin toward the wrist. This technique helps to stabilize the vein and make it easier to access for procedures such as venipuncture. Placing the thumb in this position allows for better control and minimizes movement of the vein during the procedure.
2.
Which of the following actions is unlikely to help a phlebotomist gain a patient's trust?
Correct Answer
C. Collecting a specimen before the requested time
Explanation
Collecting a specimen before the requested time is unlikely to help a phlebotomist gain a patient's trust because it shows a lack of respect for the patient's needs and preferences. By not following the requested time, the phlebotomist may cause inconvenience or discomfort to the patient, which can lead to a breakdown in trust. It is important for a phlebotomist to prioritize the patient's comfort and preferences in order to establish trust and build a positive rapport.
3.
It is unlikely that a misidentifying a paitent specimen would result in:
Correct Answer
C. No reprimand if no one was hurt.
Explanation
Misidentifying a patient specimen may lead to serious consequences such as a civil action malpractice lawsuit, being dismissed from the facility, or temporary suspension of duties. However, if no one was hurt as a result of the misidentification, there may be no reprimand since there was no harm caused.
4.
Needle phobia is defined as a/an:
Correct Answer
C. Intense fear of needles and being stuck.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Intense fear of needles and being stuck." Needle phobia refers to an extreme fear or anxiety specifically related to needles and being stuck by them. This phobia can cause significant distress and avoidance behaviors when it comes to medical procedures involving needles, such as vaccinations or blood tests. It is not related to anxiety about admission to the hospital, inability to watch while others are drawn, or personal preference for smaller needles.
5.
Symptoms of needle phobia can include:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." This is because needle phobia can cause various symptoms, including arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), fainting, and light-headedness.
6.
A basic step that can be taken to minimize any trauma assoicated with a venipuncture is to:
Correct Answer
B. Choose the most skilled pHlebotomist available to perform the venipuncture.
Explanation
To minimize trauma associated with a venipuncture, it is important to choose the most skilled phlebotomist available to perform the procedure. This is because a skilled phlebotomist will have the expertise to perform the venipuncture accurately and efficiently, reducing the chances of any complications or additional trauma. A skilled phlebotomist will also be able to handle any unexpected situations that may arise during the procedure, ensuring a smoother and less traumatic experience for the patient.
7.
Proper use of a hand sanitizer includes:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above" because proper use of a hand sanitizer involves allowing the alcohol to evaporate completely, rubbing it in between and around the fingers, and using a generous amount of the sanitizer. By following all of these steps, the hand sanitizer is effectively used to kill germs and prevent the spread of infections.
8.
To examine by touch or feel is to:
Correct Answer
C. Palpate.
Explanation
To examine by touch or feel is known as palpation. This involves using the hands or fingers to feel for abnormalities or changes in texture, temperature, or shape in the body. Ambulate refers to walking or moving about. Anchor means to secure or stabilize. Pronate refers to the rotation of the forearm so that the palm faces downwards.
9.
In most cases, needle insertion should be performed:
Correct Answer
B. Using a smooth, steady motion forward,
Explanation
When performing needle insertion, it is important to do it using a smooth, steady motion forward. This ensures that the needle is inserted properly and reduces the risk of pain or discomfort for the patient. It also helps to ensure that the needle goes in at the correct angle and depth, minimizing the chances of complications or injury. A smooth, steady motion forward allows for better control and precision during the insertion process.
10.
To "seat" the needle in the vein means to:
Correct Answer
D. Thread part of the needle with the lumen.
Explanation
To "seat" the needle in the vein means to thread part of the needle with the lumen. This refers to the process of properly inserting the needle into the vein so that the needle tip is positioned correctly within the vein's lumen. It ensures that the needle is securely in place and allows for the successful administration of fluids or medication through the vein.
11.
Going without food or drink except for water for 8 to 12 hours is defined as:
Correct Answer
A. Fasting.
Explanation
Going without food or drink except for water for 8 to 12 hours is commonly known as fasting. During fasting, individuals abstain from consuming any food or beverages, except for water, for a specific period of time. This practice is often done for religious, spiritual, or health reasons. Fasting allows the body to rest and cleanse itself, and it has been associated with various health benefits such as improved insulin sensitivity, weight loss, and reduced inflammation.
12.
The reason a test is ordered "timed" is to:
Correct Answer
C. Draw it at the best time for accurate results.
Explanation
The reason a test is ordered "timed" is to draw it at the best time for accurate results. Timing is crucial for certain tests as it can affect the validity and reliability of the results. Some tests need to be performed at specific times to capture the highest or lowest levels of certain substances in the body. This ensures that the results accurately reflect the patient's condition and help in making an accurate diagnosis or prognosis.
13.
Examples of timed tests include:
Correct Answer
B. Blood cultures, cardiac enzymes, and cortisol.
Explanation
This answer is correct because blood cultures, cardiac enzymes, and cortisol are examples of timed tests. Timed tests refer to laboratory tests that need to be performed at specific times to obtain accurate results. These tests may require specific timing for sample collection or may need to be done within a certain time frame after a specific event or medication administration. In the case of blood cultures, cardiac enzymes, and cortisol, these tests often require samples to be collected at specific intervals or during specific time periods to accurately diagnose and monitor certain conditions.
14.
A test is ordered "fasting" to:
Correct Answer
B. Eliminate the effects of diet on test results.
Explanation
The reason a test is ordered "fasting" is to eliminate the effects of diet on test results. When a person fasts, it means they abstain from eating or drinking anything except water for a certain period of time before the test. This is done because certain foods and beverages can affect the levels of certain substances in the body, which can in turn affect the results of the test. By fasting, the test results can be more accurate and reliable as they are not influenced by recent food intake.
15.
Bending the arm up to apply pressure to the site after venipuncture has not been shown to:
Correct Answer
B. Enable the site to quickly stop bleeding after needle removal.
Explanation
Bending the arm up to apply pressure to the site after venipuncture does not enable the site to quickly stop bleeding after needle removal.
16.
The unique number assigned to a specimen request is called the:
Correct Answer
A. Accession number.
Explanation
The unique number assigned to a specimen request is called the accession number. This number is used to track and identify the specimen throughout the entire testing process. It helps ensure that the correct specimen is matched with the correct patient and that the results are accurately reported. The accession number is typically generated by the laboratory or healthcare facility and is an important component in maintaining the integrity and traceability of specimens in the healthcare system.
17.
Failure of the paitent to follow required diet restrictions before specimen collection could lead to:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
If a patient fails to follow the required diet restrictions before specimen collection, it can have several negative consequences. Firstly, it can compromise patient care and treatment as the test results may not accurately reflect the patient's condition. Secondly, it can lead to erroneous and meaningless test results, which can further hinder the proper diagnosis and treatment. Lastly, the physician may misinterpret the test results due to the patient's failure to adhere to the diet restrictions. Therefore, all of the above options are valid outcomes of the patient's failure to follow the required diet restrictions.
18.
Which of the following individuals has legal authority to authorize paitent testing?
Correct Answer
C. Patient's pHysician
Explanation
The patient's physician has legal authority to authorize patient testing because they are responsible for diagnosing and treating the patient's medical condition. They have the knowledge and expertise to determine what tests are necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment. The laboratory director, nurse, and phlebotomist do not have the same level of medical knowledge and authority to make these decisions.
19.
Test requisition information must include the:
Correct Answer
A. Ordering pHysician.
Explanation
The test requisition information must include the ordering physician because this information is crucial for the laboratory to know who has requested the test. It helps in ensuring that the test is performed for the correct patient and allows for proper communication between the laboratory and the physician regarding the test results and any necessary follow-up actions. The other mentioned information such as the patient's diagnosis, location, and prior draw times may also be important but are not essential for every test requisition.
20.
Which type of requisition often serves as a test request, report, and billing form?
Correct Answer
C. Manual
Explanation
A manual requisition often serves as a test request, report, and billing form. This means that it can be used to request a test, provide a report on the results of the test, and also serve as a billing form for the services provided. Manual requisitions are typically filled out by hand and may require signatures or other forms of manual authorization. They are often used in situations where a physical form is needed for documentation purposes.
21.
Information represented by a patient ID bar code typically includes the patient's:
Correct Answer
D. Medical record number and name.
Explanation
A patient ID bar code typically includes the patient's medical record number and name. This allows healthcare professionals to accurately identify and access the patient's medical information, ensuring proper treatment and care. Including credit information and employer would be a privacy violation, while DNA information and next of kin, as well as health status and lab test results, are not typically encoded in a patient ID bar code.
22.
Outpaitent requisitions are typically of this type:
Correct Answer
C. Manual
Explanation
Outpatient requisitions are typically done manually. This means that the process of making a request for outpatient services, such as medical tests or consultations, is usually done by filling out a physical form or document. This manual method allows for proper documentation and record-keeping of the requisition, ensuring that all necessary information is provided and easily accessible. It also allows for easier tracking and processing of the request by the healthcare facility.
23.
When reveived by the laboratory, inpaitent requisitions are typically sorted according to:
Correct Answer
B. Collection priority, date and time, and patient location.
Explanation
Inpatient requisitions are sorted by collection priority, date and time, and patient location. This means that the laboratory prioritizes the collection of samples based on the urgency of the test, the date and time the requisition was received, and the location of the patient. This sorting method ensures that tests are conducted in a timely manner and that patients who require urgent testing are given priority. Sorting alphabetically by name and test requested, difficulty of draw and type of equipment needed, or proximity to the laboratory are not mentioned as criteria for sorting inpatient requisitions.
24.
Steps taken to unmistakeably connect a specimen and the accompanying paperwork to a specific individual are called:
Correct Answer
A. Accessioning the specimen.
Explanation
Accessioning the specimen refers to the process of assigning a unique identifier or accession number to a specimen and its accompanying paperwork. This ensures that the specimen and all relevant information are linked to a specific individual, allowing for accurate tracking and identification. Bar-coding specimen labels and collection verification may be part of the accessioning process, but the term "accessioning" encompasses the broader concept of connecting the specimen and paperwork to an individual. Patient identification, while important, is not specifically related to the steps taken to connect the specimen and paperwork.
25.
Which priority does a timed test typically have?
Correct Answer
B. Second
Explanation
A timed test typically has the second priority. This means that it is not the most important task, but it is still important and should be completed within the designated time frame. Other tasks or priorities may take precedence over the timed test, but it should still be given attention and completed in a timely manner.
26.
A test that is ordered stat should be collected:
Correct Answer
B. Immediately, without any hesitation.
Explanation
A test that is ordered stat should be collected immediately, without any hesitation. This means that there should be no delay in collecting the sample once the test is ordered. The term "stat" stands for "immediately" or "urgent," indicating that the test is time-sensitive and requires prompt action. Collecting the sample without any hesitation ensures that the results can be obtained quickly, allowing for timely diagnosis or treatment if necessary.
27.
Which of the following tests is commonly ordered stat?
Correct Answer
C. Lytes
Explanation
Lytes, short for electrolytes, are commonly ordered stat. Electrolytes are essential minerals in the body that help maintain proper fluid balance, nerve and muscle function, and other important bodily functions. When there is an imbalance or disruption in electrolyte levels, it can lead to serious health complications. Therefore, it is crucial to quickly assess and monitor electrolyte levels in certain situations, such as in cases of dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or cardiac abnormalities. Ordering lytes as a stat test ensures that the results are obtained and acted upon promptly to prevent any potential harm to the patient.
28.
If a test is ordered stat, it may mean that the patient is in:
Correct Answer
A. Critical condition.
Explanation
If a test is ordered stat, it suggests that the patient is in a critical condition. "Stat" is a medical term that stands for "immediately" or "urgently." Therefore, when a test is ordered stat, it indicates that the patient's condition is severe and requires immediate attention and intervention. This could be due to a life-threatening situation or a medical emergency where prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
29.
When a test is ordered ASAP, it means that:
Correct Answer
C. Results are needed soon for an appropriate response.
Explanation
When a test is ordered ASAP, it means that the results are needed soon for an appropriate response. This suggests that there is a sense of urgency in obtaining the test results in order to make a timely and informed decision or take appropriate action. It does not necessarily indicate that the patient is in critical condition or that the timing of collection is critical, although these factors could be possible reasons for ordering a test ASAP. Additionally, while the need for results for medication may be a valid reason, it is not specifically mentioned in the given options.
30.
A preop patient:
Correct Answer
D. Will soon be going to surgery.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Will soon be going to surgery." This is because the term "preop" refers to the period before a surgical procedure, indicating that the patient is in the preparation stage and will undergo surgery in the near future. The other options do not accurately describe the state of the patient before surgery.
31.
Tests are classified as routine if they are ordered:
Correct Answer
B. In the course of establishing a diagnosis.
Explanation
Tests are classified as routine if they are ordered in the course of establishing a diagnosis. This means that these tests are commonly ordered as part of the diagnostic process to help determine the underlying cause of a patient's symptoms or condition. By conducting these routine tests, healthcare professionals can gather valuable information that aids in the diagnosis and subsequent treatment planning for the patient.
32.
This term means the same as stat:
Correct Answer
B. Med emerg
Explanation
The term "med emerg" is an abbreviation for "medical emergency." It is used to describe a situation or condition that requires immediate medical attention. This term is synonymous with "stat," which is also used to indicate urgency in medical settings.
33.
A paitent who is NPO:
Correct Answer
A. Cannot have any food or drink.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Cannot have any food or drink." When a patient is NPO, it means they are not allowed to have any food or drink. This is usually done before certain medical procedures or surgeries to ensure the patient's stomach is empty and reduce the risk of complications during the procedure. It is important for the patient to follow this restriction to ensure their safety and the success of the medical intervention.
34.
An example of a test that is commonly ordered fasting is:
Correct Answer
C. Glucose.
Explanation
Glucose is commonly ordered fasting because the levels of glucose in the blood can be affected by recent food intake. Fasting ensures that the results are accurate and not influenced by recent meals. BUN, cortisol, and PTT tests do not require fasting as they are not affected by food intake.
35.
Which liquid is acceptable to drink when one is fasting?
Correct Answer
C. Plain water
Explanation
Plain water is acceptable to drink when one is fasting because it does not contain any calories, sugars, or additives that could break the fast. It is a pure and natural liquid that keeps the body hydrated without interfering with the fasting process. Other options like black coffee, diet soda, and sugarless tea may contain caffeine, artificial sweeteners, or other substances that could potentially disrupt the fasting state. Therefore, plain water is the best choice to stay hydrated while fasting.
36.
Which is a common postop test?
Correct Answer
C. H & H
Explanation
H & H, which stands for hemoglobin and hematocrit, is a common postoperative test. This test measures the levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood, providing information about the patient's blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity. Postoperative patients often undergo this test to monitor their blood loss, assess their overall health, and determine if they require any blood transfusions. The CBC (complete blood count) is a broader test that includes H & H, as well as other blood cell counts and indices. ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and PTT (partial thromboplastin time) are not typically performed as routine postoperative tests.
37.
You arrive to draw a specimen on an inpatient. The patien's door is closed. What do you do?
Correct Answer
A. Knock lightly, open the door slowly, and ask whether it is all right to enter.
Explanation
When arriving to draw a specimen on an inpatient, it is important to respect the patient's privacy and obtain their permission before entering the room. Knocking lightly and opening the door slowly shows courtesy and allows the patient time to respond. Asking whether it is all right to enter ensures that the patient is comfortable with your presence. This approach promotes patient-centered care and maintains the patient's dignity and autonomy.
38.
There is a sign above the patient's bed that reads, "No blood pressures or venipuncture, right arm," the patient has an intravenous (IV) line in the left forearm. You have a request to collect a complete blood count (CBC) on the patient. How should you proceed?
Correct Answer
D. Collect the specimen from the left hand by finger puncture.
Explanation
The correct answer is to collect the specimen from the left hand by finger puncture. This is because the sign above the patient's bed specifically states that no blood pressures or venipuncture should be done on the right arm. Therefore, using a tourniquet and collecting a CBC from the right arm would go against this instruction. Asking the patient's nurse what to do when the sign is posted is not necessary as the sign already provides clear instructions. Collecting the specimen from the left hand by finger puncture is a safe and appropriate method to obtain the CBC without violating the instructions on the sign.
39.
A code is a way to:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
A code is a system or method used to convey important information without alarming the public, transmit messages over a facility's public access system, and use numbers or words to represent important information. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."
40.
DNR means:
Correct Answer
D. Do not resuscitate.
Explanation
DNR stands for "Do not resuscitate," which means that medical professionals should not attempt to revive or resuscitate a patient if their heart stops or they stop breathing. This decision is usually made in advance by the patient or their legal representative, and it is based on the patient's wishes and quality of life considerations. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of a patient's DNR status to ensure that their wishes are respected in emergency situations.
41.
You greet your patient in the following manner: "Hello, my name is Jean and I am here to collect a blood specimen, if that is all right with you." The paitent responds by saying, "OK, but I would rather not." How would you proceed?
Correct Answer
C. Determine the problem is before
Explanation
The correct answer is to determine the problem before proceeding. The patient has expressed a reluctance to have their blood drawn, so it is important to understand the reason behind their hesitation. This could be due to fear, discomfort, or other concerns. By determining the problem before proceeding, the healthcare professional can address the patient's concerns and ensure their comfort and cooperation during the procedure.
42.
Which one of the following tests is used to identify protein disorders that lead to nerve damage?
Correct Answer
D. SPEP
Explanation
SPEP stands for Serum Protein Electrophoresis, which is a test used to identify protein disorders that can lead to nerve damage. This test separates proteins in the blood based on their size and charge, allowing for the detection of abnormal protein patterns that may indicate underlying conditions such as multiple myeloma or amyloidosis. By identifying these protein disorders, appropriate treatment and management strategies can be implemented to prevent or minimize nerve damage.
43.
Your inpatient is asleep when you arrive to draw blood. What do you do?
Correct Answer
A. Call out the patient's name softly and shake the bed gently.
Explanation
When the patient is asleep, it is important to first try to gently wake them up by calling out their name softly and shaking the bed gently. This is a non-invasive approach to try and wake the patient without causing any harm or discomfort. It allows the patient to wake up naturally and be aware of the blood draw procedure. This approach ensures patient safety and cooperation during the procedure.
44.
Laboratory results can be nagatively affected if the phlebotomist:
Correct Answer
D. While preparing to collect a specimen, startles a patient who is asleep.
Explanation
Startling a sleeping patient who is about to have a specimen collected can negatively affect laboratory results. This is because the sudden shock or surprise can cause the patient's body to produce stress hormones, such as adrenaline, which can alter the composition of the blood. These changes in hormone levels can affect various laboratory parameters, including blood glucose levels, electrolyte levels, and even blood cell counts. Therefore, it is important for the phlebotomist to approach the patient calmly and gently to ensure accurate and reliable laboratory results.
45.
In collecting a blood specimen from an unconscious patient, it is unncessary to:
Correct Answer
C. Move the patient to a special pHlebotomy collection area.
Explanation
Moving the patient to a special phlebotomy collection area is unnecessary because the location where the blood specimen is collected does not affect the procedure or the patient's unconsciousness. The other options are necessary for the safety and comfort of the patient and to ensure proper communication and consent during the blood collection process.
46.
What do you do if a physician is with the patient and the specimen is ordered stat?
Correct Answer
C. Introduce yourself and ask for permission to draw the specimen.
Explanation
When a physician is with the patient and a specimen is ordered stat, it is important to introduce yourself and ask for permission to draw the specimen. This is the most appropriate and professional approach in this situation. It ensures that you communicate with both the physician and the patient, showing respect for their presence and consent. By introducing yourself and seeking permission, you establish a clear and respectful line of communication, ensuring that the procedure is conducted with the necessary consent and cooperation.
47.
What is hte best thing to do if family or visitors are with a patient?
Correct Answer
A. Ask them to wait outside of the room until you are finished.
Explanation
When family or visitors are with a patient, the best thing to do is to ask them to wait outside of the room until you are finished. This ensures the patient's privacy and allows for uninterrupted care. It also helps to create a calm and quiet environment, which is important for the patient's well-being and recovery. By asking them to wait outside, you can focus on providing the necessary care without any distractions or interruptions.
48.
Your patient is not in the room when you arrive to collect a timed specimen. The patient's nurse states that the patient will be unavaiable for several hours. What should you do?
Correct Answer
B. Fill out a delay slip stating you were unable to collect the specimen.
Explanation
If the patient is not available and will not be available for several hours, the best course of action would be to fill out a delay slip stating that the specimen collection was not possible. This ensures that the situation is properly documented and communicated to the relevant parties. Asking the nurse to bring the patient to the lab when available may not be feasible due to the extended unavailability of the patient. Reporting the situation to a supervisor and canceling the request may not be necessary if a delay slip can adequately address the issue. Returning to the lab and putting the request in the stack for the next sweep would not be appropriate as the specimen cannot be collected at that time.
49.
Misidentification of a specimen for this test is most likely to have fatal consequences:
Correct Answer
D. Type and screen
Explanation
Misidentification of a specimen for the Type and screen test is most likely to have fatal consequences because this test is performed before a blood transfusion to determine the patient's blood type and screen for any antibodies that may cause a transfusion reaction. If the specimen is misidentified, the patient could be given the wrong blood type, leading to a severe transfusion reaction, which can be life-threatening. It is crucial to ensure accurate identification and labeling of the specimen to prevent such fatal consequences.
50.
You arrive to collect a specimen on a patient named John Doe in 302B. How do you verify that the patient in 302B is indeed John Doe?
Correct Answer
B. Ask him for his name and date of birth and match it to the requisition.
Explanation
To verify that the patient in room 302B is indeed John Doe, it is important to ask him for his name and date of birth and match it to the requisition. This method ensures that the patient's identity is confirmed and matches the information provided in the requisition. It is a reliable way to ensure that the correct patient is being attended to and that the specimen collection is being done on the right individual.