Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam General 3

Question 1

A capillary blood gas specimen is collected by heel stick from a neonate. What must be done BEFORE puncturing?

Accepted Answer

Warm the heel to 42°C for 3–5 minutes

Answer

Warming the heel increases blood flow (arterialization) so the capillary sample better reflects arterial blood gas values.

Question 2

Which specimen requires protection from light during transport?

Accepted Answer

Bilirubin specimen

Answer

Bilirubin degrades rapidly when exposed to light, so the tube must be wrapped in foil or placed in an amber bag.

Question 3

What does the abbreviation 'SOP' stand for in a clinical laboratory context?

Accepted Answer

Standard Operating Procedure

Answer

SOPs are written documents that provide step-by-step instructions to ensure consistent, safe laboratory practices.

Question 4

A phlebotomist accidentally sustains a needlestick after drawing blood from an HCV-positive patient. The FIRST action is to:

Accepted Answer

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water

Answer

Immediately washing the wound with soap and water is the first physical step to reduce pathogen load at the exposure site.

Question 5

Which tube additive is found in a royal blue (dark blue) tube used for trace element testing?

Accepted Answer

Lithium heparin or EDTA (metal-free)

Answer

Royal blue tubes contain either metal-free EDTA or metal-free sodium heparin to prevent trace metal contamination from the additive itself.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test