Free Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) General Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which tube is occasionally referred to as a serum separator tube?

Accepted Answer

Red/Gray

Answer

The Red/Gray tube, often called a 'tiger top' or 'gold top' tube, contains a gel separator and a clot activator. After the blood clots and the tube is centrifuged, the gel forms a physical barrier between the serum and the clotted blood cells. This allows for easy separation of the serum, which is then used for various laboratory tests.

Question 2

Which fluid a lumbar puncture can extract.

Accepted Answer

Cerebrospinal

Answer

A lumbar puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap, is a medical procedure used to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. Analyzing this fluid can help diagnose a wide range of neurological conditions and infections.

Question 3

For PTT, which tube is utilized?

Accepted Answer

Light Blue

Answer

The light blue top tube contains sodium citrate, an anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting by binding calcium. This specific additive is crucial for coagulation studies, such as the Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT or PTT). It ensures that the blood's clotting factors are preserved in their natural state for accurate testing.

Question 4

Which one would be a pre-analytical mistake?

Accepted Answer

Improper time of collection

Answer

Pre-analytical errors occur before the actual laboratory testing, encompassing steps from test ordering to specimen collection and transport. Collecting a specimen at an improper time, such as not adhering to fasting requirements or collecting a timed test at the wrong interval, can significantly alter test results. This can lead to inaccurate diagnoses and inappropriate patient management.

Question 5

Compared to arteries, veins are placed deeper.

Accepted Answer

FALSE

Answer

This statement is false. Veins are generally located more superficially, meaning closer to the surface of the skin, compared to arteries. Arteries are typically found deeper within the body, protected by muscle and bone, as they carry blood under higher pressure directly from the heart. This superficial placement makes veins more accessible for venipuncture procedures.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test

Free Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) General Questions and Answers