Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam General Practice 3

Question 1

Which needle gauge is most commonly used for routine adult venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

21 gauge

Answer

A 21-gauge needle is the standard for adult venipuncture, balancing adequate blood flow with minimal vein trauma.

Question 2

What does the term 'hemolysis' mean in the context of a blood specimen?

Accepted Answer

Rupture of red blood cells releasing hemoglobin

Answer

Hemolysis causes falsely elevated potassium and other intracellular analytes, often requiring recollection.

Question 3

A patient reports feeling faint during a blood draw. What should the phlebotomist do first?

Accepted Answer

Remove the needle, have the patient lower their head, and monitor them

Answer

Removing the needle and positioning the patient safely (head lowered or lying flat) prevents injury from vasovagal syncope.

Question 4

What is the correct angle of needle insertion for most routine venipunctures?

Accepted Answer

15–30 degrees

Answer

A 15–30 degree angle allows the needle to enter the vein lumen without passing through the posterior wall.

Question 5

Which specimen type is required for coagulation tests such as PT and aPTT?

Accepted Answer

Plasma from a light-blue (sodium citrate) tube

Answer

Sodium citrate binds calcium to prevent clotting, and the correct 9:1 blood-to-additive ratio is critical for accurate coagulation results.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test