ASCP ASCP Venipuncture Complications and Special Procedures 3

Question 1

When antecubital veins are not accessible for venipuncture in an adult, the recommended alternative site is:

Accepted Answer

Hand veins on the dorsal surface

Answer

Hand veins on the dorsal surface are the standard alternative venipuncture site when antecubital veins are inaccessible in adult patients.

Question 2

A patient has IV lines running in both arms. The BEST course of action is to:

Accepted Answer

Consult nursing staff and draw from an alternative site such as a hand vein

Answer

Drawing from an alternative site after nursing consultation prevents IV fluid contamination and specimen dilution.

Question 3

When palpating for a vein that cannot be visualized, the phlebotomist should use:

Accepted Answer

The index finger for tactile sensitivity

Answer

The index finger provides the greatest tactile sensitivity for detecting the bounce and resilience of a vein beneath the skin.

Question 4

A vein collapses during collection with an evacuated tube. The BEST technique to manage this is:

Accepted Answer

Use a syringe or butterfly with a smaller tube to reduce vacuum on the vein

Answer

Reducing vacuum by using a syringe or a small-volume tube allows the collapsed vein walls to refill and prevents them from being sucked shut.

Question 5

In an obese patient where veins are not palpable, which technique BEST promotes venous filling?

Accepted Answer

Lowering the arm and applying a warm compress to promote vasodilation

Answer

Warming the arm causes vasodilation and gravity from lowering the arm promotes venous filling, making veins more accessible in difficult patients.

ASCP Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test