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

Brush cytology specimens must be smeared onto a glass slide and immediately fixed with cytology spray or 95% ethanol to prevent air-drying artifact that ruins cellular morphology.

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

Chain of custody documentation ensures that the specimen's integrity is maintained and that there is a clear, accountable record of everyone who handled it from collection through analysis.

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

EMR specimens must be pinned flat on a cork board mucosal-side up before fixation to preserve margins and orientation, allowing the pathologist to assess resection adequacy.

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

Saline is used as a transport medium for fresh tissue that requires flow cytometry, lymphoma workup, or other specialized testing that requires viable, unfixed cells.

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

Formalin (formaldehyde) is a known carcinogen and must be stored in well-ventilated, designated chemical storage areas per OSHA and NFPA standards to prevent exposure and fire hazard.

(CET) Certified Endoscopy Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Endoscopy Technician Practice Test

CET Specimen Handling & Processing 2