Phlebotomy and Specimen Collection Flashcards

Which tube additive is found in a light blue-top (sodium citrate) tube and is used for coagulation studies?

Answer: Sodium citrate

Light blue-top tubes contain sodium citrate, which chelates calcium to prevent clotting and is used for PT, aPTT, and other coagulation tests.

A patient's arm veins are not visible. What is the BEST alternative site for venipuncture in an adult?

Answer: Hand veins

Hand veins are the preferred alternative when antecubital veins are inaccessible, as they are accessible and relatively safe.

What is the maximum angle recommended for needle insertion during a routine venipuncture?

Answer: 30 degrees

A 15–30 degree angle is appropriate; 30 degrees is the maximum to avoid going through the vein.

Which specimen collection technique is used to detect bacteremia or septicemia?

Answer: Blood culture collection

Blood cultures are drawn to detect bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream, diagnosing bacteremia or septicemia.

The order of draw for evacuated tubes places the SST (gold/tiger-top) immediately after:

Answer: Blood culture bottles

Per CLSI guidelines, blood culture bottles are drawn first, followed by light blue, then SST/gold tubes.

A hemoconcentrated specimen can result from which phlebotomy error?

Answer: Leaving the tourniquet on for more than 1 minute

Prolonged tourniquet application (>1 minute) causes hemoconcentration, falsely elevating proteins, cells, and other large analytes.

Which needle gauge is MOST commonly used for routine adult venipuncture?

Answer: 21 gauge

21-gauge needles are standard for routine adult venipuncture, providing adequate flow without excessive vein trauma.