AMCA Phlebotomy and Blood Collection 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does hemolysis of a blood sample indicate?
- The sample has clotted prematurely
- Red blood cells have ruptured, releasing their contents into the plasma (Correct answer)
- The sample has been contaminated with bacteria
- White blood cell count has increased abnormally
Correct answer: Red blood cells have ruptured, releasing their contents into the plasma
Hemolysis occurs when red blood cells rupture and release hemoglobin into the plasma, which interferes with many laboratory assays.
Question 2: A hematoma begins to form at the venipuncture site during blood collection. What is the FIRST action to take?
- Draw faster to complete the collection quickly
- Remove the needle immediately and apply direct pressure (Correct answer)
- Reinsert the needle at a different angle
- Loosen the tourniquet and continue drawing
Correct answer: Remove the needle immediately and apply direct pressure
The needle must be removed immediately and firm pressure applied to prevent further blood from leaking into the surrounding tissue.
Question 3: Which tube color is associated with EDTA as an additive and is used for hematology testing such as CBC?
- Red
- Green
- Lavender/Purple (Correct answer)
- Yellow
Correct answer: Lavender/Purple
Lavender or purple-top tubes contain EDTA, an anticoagulant that preserves cell morphology for complete blood count (CBC) testing.
Question 4: At what angle should a venipuncture needle be inserted to enter the vein correctly?
- 5–10 degrees
- 15–30 degrees (Correct answer)
- 45–60 degrees
- 90 degrees
Correct answer: 15–30 degrees
A 15–30 degree angle with the bevel up allows the needle to enter the vein smoothly without penetrating the posterior wall.
Question 5: What blood collection method is the standard of care for infants and newborns?
- Venipuncture from the antecubital fossa
- Arterial puncture from the radial artery
- Capillary (heel stick) puncture (Correct answer)
- Central venous line collection
Correct answer: Capillary (heel stick) puncture
The heel stick (capillary puncture) is the safest, least traumatic method for collecting blood from newborns and infants.
Question 6: What does "bevel up" mean when referring to needle insertion during venipuncture?
- The slanted opening of the needle is facing downward toward the vein floor
- The slanted opening of the needle is facing upward toward the skin surface (Correct answer)
- The needle is rotated 90 degrees after insertion
- The needle hub is tilted upward at a steep angle
Correct answer: The slanted opening of the needle is facing upward toward the skin surface
Bevel up means the slanted opening at the needle tip faces upward, which facilitates smoother penetration into the vein.
Question 7: Which of the following actions can CAUSE hemolysis during blood collection?
- Using a 21-gauge needle
- Drawing blood slowly with a syringe
- Vigorously shaking the collection tube after filling (Correct answer)
- Keeping the collection tube at room temperature
Correct answer: Vigorously shaking the collection tube after filling
Vigorously shaking the tube causes mechanical disruption of red blood cells, resulting in hemolysis and potentially invalidating test results.
AMCA Phlebotomy and Blood Collection 2
What does hemolysis of a blood sample indicate?