Practice Test Geeks(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test
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Specimen Collection Techniques Flashcards

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  1. A phlebotomist is asked to draw a specimen for a fasting glucose test. The patient says they had coffee with sugar 30 minutes ago. The correct action is to:

    Answer: Reschedule the draw after a sufficient fasting period

    Sugary coffee breaks the fast and will elevate glucose results; the draw should be rescheduled after the required fasting period.

  2. Which specimen type is collected in a green-top tube containing lithium heparin?

    Answer: Plasma for chemistry tests

    Lithium heparin green-top tubes are used to collect plasma for stat chemistry panels and other plasma-based assays.

  3. What is the correct lancet depth for an adult fingerstick to obtain an adequate sample while minimizing pain?

    Answer: 2.0 mm

    A 2.0 mm depth is standard for adult fingerstick lancets, providing enough blood flow without excessive discomfort or tissue damage.

  4. When a patient has an IV line in the arm, blood should ideally be drawn from:

    Answer: The opposite arm

    Drawing from the opposite arm avoids IV fluid contamination of the specimen; if unavoidable, draw below the IV with the IV shut off for at least 2 minutes.

  5. Which of the following BEST describes the purpose of the order of draw?

    Answer: To prevent additive carryover between tubes that could alter test results

    The order of draw minimizes the risk of additive cross-contamination between tubes that could falsely alter coagulation, chemistry, or hematology results.

  6. Which of the following actions can CAUSE hemolysis during specimen collection?

    Answer: Vigorously shaking the tube after collection

    Vigorous shaking mechanically lyses red blood cells, causing hemolysis that interferes with potassium, LDH, and other analytes.

  7. A STAT specimen for electrolytes arrives in the lab in a serum separator tube (SST). The tube has not been centrifuged. The correct next step is to:

    Answer: Centrifuge immediately and analyze the serum

    SST tubes must be centrifuged to separate serum from cells before analysis; STAT orders require immediate centrifugation.