FREE NHA Laboratory Procedures and Specimen Handling Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the correct order of draw for a light blue top tube, a lavender top tube, and a serum separator tube (SST)?

Accepted Answer

Light Blue, SST, Lavender

Answer

The standard order of draw prevents additive cross-contamination. Coagulation tubes (light blue) are drawn first, followed by serum tubes like the SST, and then tubes with other additives like EDTA (lavender).

Question 2

The additive in a lavender-topped collection tube is:

Accepted Answer

EDTA

Answer

Lavender (or purple) top tubes contain the anticoagulant Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). EDTA works by binding to calcium in the blood, which prevents the clotting cascade from occurring and preserves blood cell morphology for hematology tests.

Question 3

Which type of urine specimen is required for a culture and sensitivity test?

Accepted Answer

Clean-catch midstream specimen

Answer

A clean-catch midstream specimen is necessary to minimize contamination from external bacteria. This ensures that any microorganisms grown in the culture are from the patient's urinary tract, leading to an accurate diagnosis.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a CLIA-waived test commonly performed in a medical office?

Accepted Answer

Urine pregnancy test

Answer

CLIA-waived tests are simple procedures with a low risk of an incorrect result. A rapid urine pregnancy test is a prime example of a waived test that medical assistants are trained to perform.

Question 5

What is the most critical step in ensuring the accuracy of a laboratory result?

Accepted Answer

Properly labeling the specimen

Answer

Properly identifying the patient and correctly labeling the specimen at the time of collection is the most critical step. A mislabeled or unlabeled specimen can lead to a catastrophic error in diagnosis and treatment.

NHA - National Healthcareer Association Practice Test

NHA - National Healthcareer Association Practice Test

FREE NHA Laboratory Procedures and Specimen Handling Questions and Answers