CET Specimen Handling & Processing 2

Question 1

Which of the following is an appropriate step when handling a specimen collected for cytology via brushing?

Accepted Answer

Smear the brush onto a glass slide and fix immediately with cytology spray or alcohol

Answer

Place the brush in formalin

Answer

Rinse the brush in sterile water and submit the water

Answer

Place the entire brush in a dry container and submit

Question 2

What does the chain of custody for a specimen primarily ensure?

Accepted Answer

Accountability and integrity of the specimen from collection to analysis

Answer

The specimen is processed faster

Answer

The physician is billed correctly

Answer

The technician is protected from liability only

Question 3

A patient is having an endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). How should the resected specimen be handled to preserve orientation for pathology?

Accepted Answer

Pin the specimen flat on a cork board with the mucosal side up before placing in formalin

Answer

Place freely floating in formalin

Answer

Roll the specimen and place in cassette immediately

Answer

Freeze the specimen for cryosection only

Question 4

When is it appropriate to use normal saline as a transport medium for an endoscopic specimen?

Accepted Answer

For specimens being sent for flow cytometry or fresh tissue analysis

Answer

For all routine biopsies

Answer

For H. pylori biopsy urease testing only

Answer

Saline is never appropriate for endoscopic specimens

Question 5

According to standard safety protocols, formalin containers must be stored in which type of environment?

Accepted Answer

A well-ventilated area or designated chemical storage with appropriate labeling

Answer

Any cabinet at room temperature

Answer

Refrigerated at 4°C

Answer

Near heat sources to prevent crystallization

Question 6

A requisition form must accompany each pathology specimen. Which clinical detail is MOST important to include on this form?

Accepted Answer

Relevant clinical history and the specific anatomical location of the biopsy

Answer

The cost of the procedure

Answer

The patient's insurance provider

Answer

The endoscope model used

Question 7

What is the purpose of the rapid urease test (CLO test) performed on a gastric biopsy?

Accepted Answer

To detect Helicobacter pylori infection through ammonia production

Answer

To detect colorectal cancer markers

Answer

To measure gastric acid output

Answer

To identify Clostridium difficile in the stomach