ASCP Capillary Puncture and Dermal Collection

Question 1

Which finger is the preferred site for capillary blood collection in adults?

Accepted Answer

Middle or ring finger

Answer

Thumb

Answer

Index finger

Answer

Pinky finger

Question 2

What is the purpose of discarding the first drop of blood during capillary collection?

Accepted Answer

It may be contaminated with tissue fluid that can cause erroneous results

Answer

It contains excess anticoagulant from the lancet

Answer

It is required only for glucose testing per CLSI standards

Answer

It reduces the risk of hemolysis in subsequent drops

Question 3

Which area of the heel is recommended for capillary puncture in neonates?

Accepted Answer

The medial or lateral plantar surface

Answer

The center of the heel

Answer

The posterior curvature of the heel

Answer

The dorsal surface of the foot

Question 4

What is the maximum recommended puncture depth for a neonate heel stick per CLSI guidelines?

Accepted Answer

2.0 mm

Answer

1.0 mm

Answer

1.5 mm

Answer

2.5 mm

Question 5

In capillary blood collection, which specimen is collected FIRST when multiple collection devices are used?

Accepted Answer

EDTA (lavender) tubes

Answer

Serum or non-additive tubes

Answer

Blood gas specimens

Answer

Slides for differential smears

Question 6

Which action should be avoided when collecting a capillary blood specimen?

Accepted Answer

Squeezing or milking the site excessively

Answer

Warming the puncture site beforehand

Answer

Wiping away the first drop of blood

Answer

Making the puncture perpendicular to fingerprint lines

Question 7

What is the recommended method to increase blood flow to a site before capillary puncture?

Accepted Answer

Warm the site to approximately 42°C for 3 to 5 minutes

Answer

Apply a tourniquet to the wrist

Answer

Have the patient hold their breath

Answer

Apply alcohol and allow it to air dry for 30 seconds only