CNA CNA Medical Lab and Specimen Collection Skills 3

Question 1

A wound culture has been ordered. What is the CNA's role in this procedure?

Accepted Answer

Gather supplies, provide privacy, and assist as directed by the nurse

Answer

Wound culture collection is typically performed by a nurse or physician. The CNA's role is to gather the necessary supplies, ensure patient privacy and comfort, maintain a clean environment, and assist the nurse as directed during the procedure.

Question 2

What is the correct action when a urine specimen cannot be sent to the lab immediately after collection?

Accepted Answer

Refrigerate the specimen and transport within 2 hours

Answer

Urine specimens should be refrigerated (not frozen) if they cannot be immediately transported to the lab. Refrigeration slows bacterial growth and preserves the specimen's integrity. Most urine specimens should reach the lab within 2 hours of collection.

Question 3

What information is typically included on the laboratory requisition form that accompanies a specimen?

Accepted Answer

Patient name, DOB, test ordered, collection date/time, and ordering physician

Answer

A complete lab requisition form includes the patient's full name, date of birth, medical record number, the specific test ordered, collection date and time, specimen source/type, and the ordering physician's name. This information ensures the right test is performed on the right patient.

Question 4

Standard precautions apply to which of the following?

Accepted Answer

All patients regardless of their diagnosis or known infection status

Answer

Standard precautions apply to EVERY patient in EVERY encounter, regardless of whether they have a known infection. Standard precautions treat all blood, body fluids, secretions, and excretions as potentially infectious. This protects both patients and healthcare workers.

Question 5

A CNA is collecting a urine specimen and notices the urine is dark brown and has a strong odor. What should the CNA do?

Accepted Answer

Collect the specimen, note the observations, and report to the nurse

Answer

The CNA should collect the specimen as ordered, note the abnormal characteristics (color, odor, clarity), and immediately report the observations to the nurse. Abnormal urine appearance is clinically significant and must be communicated — it may indicate dehydration, infection, liver disease, or other conditions.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA CNA Medical Lab and Specimen Collection Skills 3