ASCP Specimen Collection 2

Question 1

What is the maximum depth for a heel stick on a newborn infant?

Accepted Answer

2.0 mm

Answer

The maximum penetration depth for a newborn heel stick is 2.0 mm to avoid puncturing the calcaneus and causing osteomyelitis.

Question 2

When collecting a timed specimen such as a cortisol level, what is the most critical factor?

Accepted Answer

Drawing the specimen at the exact specified time

Answer

Timed specimens must be collected at the exact time specified because many analytes like cortisol follow circadian rhythms.

Question 3

Which specimen type requires cold agglutinin precautions during collection and transport?

Accepted Answer

Cold agglutinin titer

Answer

Cold agglutinin specimens must be kept warm (37 degrees C) because cold agglutinins cause red blood cells to clump at lower temperatures.

Question 4

What is the correct procedure for collecting a midstream clean-catch urine specimen?

Accepted Answer

Clean the genital area, begin voiding into the toilet, then collect midstream urine

Answer

A midstream clean-catch requires cleaning the area, beginning to void into the toilet to flush bacteria, then collecting the midstream portion in a sterile container.

Question 5

A glucose tolerance test (GTT) requires fasting. How long must the patient fast before the test?

Accepted Answer

8-12 hours

Answer

Patients must fast 8-12 hours before a glucose tolerance test to establish a valid baseline fasting glucose level.

ASCP Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test

ASCP Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test

ASCP Specimen Collection 2