Free NPA Laboratory Practices & Specimen Handling Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the correct procedure for handling blood specimens?

Accepted Answer

Refrigerate blood specimens immediately

Answer

Many blood specimens, especially those for chemistry or hematology tests, need to be refrigerated immediately after collection and processing (if applicable) to preserve their integrity. Refrigeration slows down metabolic processes and degradation of analytes, ensuring accurate test results. However, specific temperature requirements can vary by test type.

Question 2

What is the primary reason for properly labeling blood specimens?

Accepted Answer

To ensure proper test analysis

Answer

Proper labeling of blood specimens is critical for patient safety and accurate diagnosis. Each specimen must be clearly labeled with the patient's full name, date of birth, date and time of collection, and the phlebotomist's initials. This ensures the correct specimen is matched with the correct patient and ordered tests, preventing misidentification errors that could lead to severe medical consequences.

Question 3

What is the best practice for transporting specimens to the laboratory?

Accepted Answer

Transport specimens in a biohazard bag with appropriate refrigeration

Answer

Blood specimens must be transported safely and under controlled conditions to maintain their integrity and prevent contamination. Using a biohazard bag protects against leaks and identifies the contents as hazardous, while appropriate refrigeration (or other temperature control) prevents degradation of analytes. This ensures accurate test results and protects transport personnel from potential exposure.

Question 4

What should be done if a blood specimen is clotted?

Accepted Answer

Refrigerate it before re-collecting

Answer

If a blood specimen is clotted when it shouldn't be (e.g., in an anticoagulant tube), it indicates an issue with collection or mixing, and the sample is unsuitable for many tests. The correct procedure is to refrigerate the clotted specimen to preserve it while a new, properly collected specimen is obtained. The clotted sample cannot be used for tests requiring whole blood or plasma.

Question 5

How can contamination of a blood specimen be prevented?

Accepted Answer

By properly cleaning the site before blood collection

Answer

Contamination of a blood specimen, particularly with skin flora, can lead to inaccurate test results, especially for blood cultures. Properly cleaning the venipuncture site with an antiseptic before the draw significantly reduces the presence of microorganisms on the skin. This ensures the collected blood is representative of the patient's internal state and prevents false positive results.

NPA - National Phlebotomy Association Certification Practice Test

NPA - National Phlebotomy Association Certification Practice Test

Free NPA Laboratory Practices & Specimen Handling Questions and Answers