CMLA Phlebotomy 4

Question 1

What is the purpose of inverting evacuated tubes after collection?

Accepted Answer

To mix the blood with the additive and prevent clotting or ensure proper preservation

Answer

Gentle inversion mixes blood with anticoagulants or clot activators to ensure proper specimen processing.

Question 2

A patient on anticoagulant therapy has veins that are difficult to locate. Which technique is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Use a butterfly needle and select the best visible vein, applying gentle pressure after collection

Answer

Butterfly needles offer more control in difficult draws, and gentle post-draw pressure is critical because anticoagulated patients bleed longer.

Question 3

Blood cultures should ideally be collected:

Accepted Answer

Before antibiotic therapy begins, using strict aseptic technique

Answer

Collecting blood cultures before antibiotics maximizes the chance of isolating the causative organism before antimicrobial agents reduce bacterial counts.

Question 4

Which condition is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions in the arm during or after venipuncture and may result from hyperventilation?

Accepted Answer

Tetany

Answer

Hyperventilation causes hypocapnia and respiratory alkalosis, lowering ionized calcium and triggering tetanic muscle spasms.

Question 5

For a timed specimen such as a fasting glucose, what information is most critical to document?

Accepted Answer

The exact time of collection and patient's last food/drink intake

Answer

Timed specimens require accurate collection time and fasting duration to ensure clinically valid interpretation of results.

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test

CMLA Phlebotomy 4