ASPT ASPT Quality Assurance & Laboratory Operations 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of proficiency testing (PT) in a CLIA-certified laboratory?

Accepted Answer

Evaluate lab performance by testing unknown samples from an external program

Answer

Proficiency testing requires labs to test unknown samples sent by an external program to evaluate and verify that the lab's results are accurate and consistent with peers.

Question 2

Which term describes the ability of a test to correctly identify those WITH the disease (low false-negative rate)?

Accepted Answer

Sensitivity

Answer

Sensitivity measures a test's ability to correctly identify true positives (patients with the disease), meaning a highly sensitive test has few false negatives.

Question 3

What does 'chain of custody' refer to in specimen handling?

Accepted Answer

Documented, unbroken accountability of a specimen from collection to result reporting

Answer

Chain of custody is a documented process ensuring unbroken, accountable handling of a specimen — required for legal, forensic, and drug-testing specimens.

Question 4

What is the correct response if a phlebotomist suspects a specimen has been mislabeled?

Accepted Answer

Recollect the specimen following proper identification procedures

Answer

A mislabeled specimen must be rejected and recollected with proper patient identification to prevent misidentification errors that could harm the patient.

Question 5

Which accreditation body is known for inspecting hospital and clinical laboratories in the US?

Accepted Answer

CAP (College of American Pathologists)

Answer

The College of American Pathologists (CAP) is a leading accreditation body that inspects labs using peer review to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test

(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test

ASPT ASPT Quality Assurance & Laboratory Operations 2