ASPT ASPT Quality Assurance & Laboratory Operations 3

Question 1

What does HIPAA primarily protect in the context of phlebotomy and laboratory work?

Accepted Answer

Patient privacy and confidentiality of health information

Answer

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) protects the privacy and security of patients' protected health information (PHI) in all healthcare settings.

Question 2

What is the minimum number of patient identifiers required before collecting a specimen according to standard safety protocols?

Accepted Answer

Two (e.g., full name and date of birth)

Answer

At least two unique patient identifiers — such as full name and date of birth or medical record number — must be confirmed before specimen collection to prevent misidentification.

Question 3

Which action best prevents hemolysis of a blood specimen during collection?

Accepted Answer

Allowing blood to flow gently into the tube without forcing

Answer

Allowing blood to flow gently into the tube without forcing or excessive agitation prevents the mechanical destruction of red blood cells that causes hemolysis.

Question 4

What does 'turnaround time' (TAT) measure in laboratory quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

Time from specimen collection to result reporting

Answer

Turnaround time (TAT) measures the elapsed time from specimen collection (or receipt) to when the final result is available, and is a key quality indicator.

Question 5

Which term describes systematic, consistent error in laboratory testing caused by faulty reagents or equipment?

Accepted Answer

Systematic error (bias)

Answer

Systematic error (bias) is a consistent, reproducible deviation in results caused by faulty reagents, miscalibrated equipment, or procedural flaws affecting all results in one direction.

(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test

(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test

ASPT ASPT Quality Assurance & Laboratory Operations 3