Specimen Collection Flashcards
7 cards from real Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Specimen Collection flashcards as text
In the order of draw for evacuated tube collection, which tube is collected FIRST?
Answer: Blood culture bottles
Blood culture bottles are always collected first to minimize contamination risk before other tubes.
Which condition requires a timed specimen collection and why?
Answer: Glucose tolerance test, because glucose levels change predictably after a challenge dose
The glucose tolerance test requires specimens at exact intervals (baseline, 1-hour, 2-hour) to track the body's glucose metabolism response.
What action should be taken if a patient faints (syncope) during venipuncture?
Answer: Remove the needle, apply pressure, lower the patient's head, and call for help
Remove the needle immediately, apply pressure to the site, lower the patient's head or position them safely, and summon assistance.
Which tube stopper color indicates a serum separator tube (SST)?
Answer: Gold or red-gray tiger-top
Gold or red-gray tiger-top stoppers indicate SST tubes, which contain a clot activator and gel separator for serum collection.
Why must the first drop of blood be wiped away during a capillary puncture?
Answer: It may be contaminated with tissue fluid and alcohol residue
The first drop is discarded because it may be diluted with tissue fluid and contaminated with residual alcohol, skewing results.
A phlebotomist cannot locate a vein after two unsuccessful attempts. What is the appropriate next step?
Answer: Ask another qualified phlebotomist or supervisor to attempt the draw
After two failed attempts, standard practice requires requesting another qualified collector to attempt the draw rather than continuing.
Which specimen type is required for a lead level test in a pediatric patient?
Answer: Whole blood collected in a royal blue (EDTA) or tan-top tube
Lead levels require whole blood in a trace-element-free royal blue or tan EDTA tube to prevent contamination from metals in the stopper.