FREE CCMA Phlebotomy Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

A medical assistant is drawing blood for a CBC, a PT, and a chemistry panel. What is the correct order of draw?

Accepted Answer

Light Blue, Red, Lavender

Answer

The correct order of draw is critical to prevent cross-contamination of additives between tubes. The light blue top (PT) must be drawn first to ensure the coagulation results are accurate, followed by the red/gold top for the chemistry panel, and finally the lavender top (CBC).

Question 2

Which of the following is the most critical step in performing a venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

Properly identifying the patient

Answer

While all steps are important for safety and accuracy, positively identifying the patient is the most crucial step. A failure in patient identification can lead to catastrophic errors in diagnosis and treatment.

Question 3

What is the additive in the lavender-topped tube?

Accepted Answer

EDTA

Answer

The lavender-topped tube contains the anticoagulant Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). EDTA works by binding to calcium in the blood, which prevents clotting and preserves the morphology of blood cells for hematology tests like a CBC.

Question 4

A patient develops a large hematoma during a venipuncture. What is the first action the medical assistant should take?

Accepted Answer

Release the tourniquet and remove the needle

Answer

If a hematoma begins to form, the first priority is to stop the blood flow into the surrounding tissue. This is achieved by immediately releasing the tourniquet and withdrawing the needle, then applying firm pressure to the site.

Question 5

Which is the most common and appropriate needle gauge for a routine venipuncture on an adult with healthy veins?

Accepted Answer

21 gauge

Answer

A 21-gauge needle is the standard for routine venipuncture in adults as it allows for good blood flow without causing excessive trauma to the vein. A 23-gauge is smaller and often used for smaller or more fragile veins, while an 18-gauge is larger and typically used for blood donation.

CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Practice Test

CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Practice Test

FREE CCMA Phlebotomy Procedures Questions and Answers