CMLA Equipment Maintenance 4

Question 1

During a routine check, a laboratory thermometer reads 2°C higher than the NIST-traceable reference thermometer. What is the correct response?

Accepted Answer

Apply a correction factor and document it, or replace the thermometer

Answer

A documented correction factor or thermometer replacement ensures temperature-sensitive specimens and reagents are stored at the true required temperature.

Question 2

What is the function of a rotor imbalance detector in a centrifuge?

Accepted Answer

To shut down the centrifuge automatically if unequal loading causes dangerous vibration

Answer

Rotor imbalance detectors prevent mechanical damage and rotor failure by stopping the centrifuge when dangerous vibration is detected.

Question 3

Which laboratory instrument requires a daily linearity check using a neutral density filter set?

Accepted Answer

Spectrophotometer

Answer

Neutral density filters with certified percent transmittance values are used to verify spectrophotometer photometric linearity.

Question 4

A pipette calibration check shows it consistently delivers 2% less volume than the set value. This type of error is called:

Accepted Answer

Systematic (bias) error

Answer

A consistent directional offset across all measurements is a systematic or bias error, often correctable through recalibration.

Question 5

What should a medical laboratory assistant do before performing any internal maintenance on an automated analyzer?

Accepted Answer

Power off the instrument and follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures

Answer

LOTO procedures isolate the instrument from its energy source, preventing accidental activation and protecting the technician during internal maintenance.

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test

CMLA Equipment Maintenance 4