AMCA Diagnostic Procedures 4

Question 1

Which urine dipstick finding is most consistent with a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Accepted Answer

Positive leukocyte esterase and nitrites

Answer

Leukocyte esterase indicates WBCs (pyuria) and nitrites indicate gram-negative bacteria, both hallmarks of UTI.

Question 2

The order of draw for venipuncture when collecting a yellow (SPS), light blue, and SST tube is:

Accepted Answer

Yellow → Light blue → SST

Answer

CLSI order of draw: blood cultures (yellow SPS) → coagulation (light blue) → serum tubes (SST/red) to prevent additive cross-contamination.

Question 3

Which imaging study uses a radioactive tracer to evaluate metabolic activity and is commonly used in cancer staging?

Accepted Answer

PET scan

Answer

PET (positron emission tomography) uses fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) to detect areas of high metabolic activity such as tumors.

Question 4

A QRS complex wider than 0.12 seconds on an ECG suggests:

Accepted Answer

Bundle branch block or ventricular origin

Answer

A wide QRS (>0.12 s) indicates delayed ventricular conduction, as seen in bundle branch block or beats originating in the ventricles.

Question 5

Which blood test is used to screen for prostate cancer in men?

Accepted Answer

PSA

Answer

PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a glycoprotein produced by prostate tissue and is the standard screening marker for prostate cancer.

(AMCA) American Medical Certification Association Practice Test