AAMA Phlebotomy and Specimen Collection 3

Question 1

What is the FIRST action after accidental needlestick injury during phlebotomy?

Accepted Answer

Wash the site thoroughly with soap and water

Answer

Immediately washing the wound with soap and water for several minutes is the first step to reduce pathogen transmission risk.

Question 2

Which of the following is a pre-analytical error that can cause hemolysis in a blood specimen?

Accepted Answer

Using too large a syringe with too much suction force

Answer

Applying excessive vacuum or suction can rupture red blood cells, causing hemolysis before the sample reaches the lab.

Question 3

A patient is on anticoagulant therapy. Which finding during venipuncture site assessment would require the MOST caution?

Accepted Answer

Petechiae on the forearm

Answer

Petechiae indicate capillary fragility or a bleeding/clotting disorder, requiring extra pressure after puncture and careful technique.

Question 4

Why must the skin be allowed to fully dry after antiseptic cleansing before venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

To prevent specimen contamination with alcohol

Answer

Residual alcohol can hemolyze red blood cells and contaminate certain analytes, particularly blood alcohol levels.

Question 5

Which specimen type is collected to perform a therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) trough level?

Accepted Answer

Specimen drawn just before the next scheduled dose

Answer

A trough level is the lowest drug concentration, drawn immediately before the next dose to assess minimum effective levels.

(AAMA) American Association of Medical Assistants Certified Practice Test