Phlebotomy and Specimen Collection Flashcards

What is the purpose of inverting blood collection tubes after drawing blood?

Answer: To mix the blood with tube additives

Gently inverting tubes mixes the blood with the additives (such as anticoagulants or clot activators) to ensure proper specimen integrity.

Which type of specimen collection device is used for capillary blood collection from a fingerstick?

Answer: Lancet

A lancet is used to puncture the skin for capillary blood collection via fingerstick or heelstick procedures.

A patient's blood sample shows hemolysis. Which of the following could be a cause?

Answer: Using a small-gauge needle with a syringe

Using a small-gauge needle with a syringe can cause hemolysis because the narrow lumen creates shear forces that rupture red blood cells.

Where is the preferred site for a heelstick procedure in newborns?

Answer: Lateral or medial plantar surface of the heel

The lateral or medial plantar surface of the heel is preferred for heelsticks because it avoids bone, nerves, and major blood vessels.

What should be done if a patient faints (syncope) during a blood draw?

Answer: Remove the needle, apply pressure, and lower the patient's head

The needle must be removed immediately to prevent injury, pressure applied to stop bleeding, and the patient's head lowered to restore cerebral blood flow.

Which of the following is an absolute contraindication for venipuncture at a specific site?

Answer: Site has an IV line infusing fluids

Drawing blood from an arm with an IV infusion can dilute the sample and produce inaccurate results; the IV must be stopped for at least 2 minutes or the opposite arm used.

How many times should a skin puncture site be wiped with an alcohol swab before the procedure?

Answer: Once in a circular outward motion

The site should be cleaned once using a circular outward motion with a 70% isopropyl alcohol swab, then allowed to air dry to ensure antisepsis.