Quality & Professional Issues Flashcards

What is the purpose of proficiency testing (PT) in a clinical laboratory?

Answer: To evaluate laboratory performance by testing unknown samples from an external agency

Proficiency testing evaluates laboratory accuracy by requiring the lab to analyze unknown specimens from an external agency and comparing results to target values.

Which ethical principle requires a phlebotomist to obtain a patient's agreement before performing a blood draw?

Answer: Informed consent

Informed consent requires that the patient understands and agrees to the procedure before it is performed.

What does the delta check in laboratory testing evaluate?

Answer: The comparison of a patient's current result with their previous result

A delta check compares a patient's current test result with their most recent previous result to identify clinically significant changes that might indicate a specimen error.

Under CLIA regulations, which level of testing complexity includes most point-of-care tests performed by phlebotomists?

Answer: CLIA-waived

Most point-of-care tests (glucose meters, rapid strep tests) fall under the CLIA-waived category with simplified quality requirements.

A phlebotomist is asked to collect blood from a patient who speaks a different language. What is the most appropriate action?

Answer: Request a certified medical interpreter

Using a certified medical interpreter ensures accurate communication, proper informed consent, and compliance with patient rights regulations.

What is the correct procedure for handling a patient complaint about a phlebotomist's performance?

Answer: Apologize, listen to the patient's concerns, and report the incident to a supervisor

Professional handling requires active listening, empathy, a sincere apology, and reporting to a supervisor for documentation and follow-up.