ASPT Blood Collection Equipment & Supplies 2

Question 1

What does 'SST' stand for in the context of blood collection tubes?

Accepted Answer

Serum Separator Tube

Answer

SST stands for Serum Separator Tube; it contains a gel barrier that separates serum from cellular components after centrifugation.

Question 2

Which needle gauge is MOST appropriate for venipuncture in a pediatric patient?

Accepted Answer

23 gauge

Answer

23-gauge (or smaller) needles are preferred for pediatric patients because they cause less trauma and are sized appropriately for smaller, more delicate veins.

Question 3

The gray-top tube contains which combination of additives?

Accepted Answer

Potassium oxalate and sodium fluoride

Answer

Gray-top tubes contain potassium oxalate (anticoagulant) and sodium fluoride (glycolysis inhibitor) to preserve glucose and lactate levels in the specimen.

Question 4

What is the function of the clot activator found in red or gold-top serum tubes?

Accepted Answer

To accelerate the clotting process for serum collection

Answer

Clot activators such as silica particles accelerate the natural coagulation cascade, allowing the clot to form quickly so serum can be separated efficiently after centrifugation.

Question 5

Which system allows multiple evacuated tubes to be filled from a single venipuncture without removing the needle?

Accepted Answer

Evacuated (Vacutainer) multi-sample needle system

Answer

The evacuated multi-sample needle system (e.g., Vacutainer) uses a double-ended needle and reusable holder, enabling multiple tubes to be collected sequentially from one stick.

(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test

(ASPT) American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians Practice Test

ASPT Blood Collection Equipment & Supplies 2