Free NPS Specimen Collection & Handling Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following is the most common site for venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

Median cubital vein

Answer

The median cubital vein, located in the antecubital fossa (the bend of the elbow), is the most common and preferred site for venipuncture. It is typically large, well-anchored, and easily accessible, making it ideal for drawing blood samples with minimal discomfort and risk. Other veins like the cephalic and basilic veins are also used but are often secondary choices.

Question 2

Which tube color is used for coagulation tests?

Accepted Answer

Light blue

Answer

The light blue top tube contains sodium citrate, an anticoagulant that works by binding calcium, which is essential for blood clotting. This specific anticoagulant is critical for coagulation tests (e.g., PT, PTT) because it preserves the clotting factors in their natural state. This allows for accurate assessment of the patient's clotting ability without premature clotting in the sample.

Question 3

What is the correct order of draw when using multiple collection tubes?

Accepted Answer

Blue, red, green, lavender

Answer

The correct order of draw is crucial to prevent cross-contamination of additives between collection tubes, which could lead to inaccurate test results. The sequence Blue, Red, Green, Lavender follows the standard guidelines, prioritizing tubes based on their additives and potential for interference with subsequent tests. This specific order ensures the integrity of each sample for its intended analysis.

Question 4

How long should a tourniquet be applied during blood collection?

Accepted Answer

1 minute or less

Answer

A tourniquet should be applied for no longer than 1 minute during venipuncture. Prolonged application can lead to hemoconcentration, where blood components become more concentrated, potentially altering test results. It can also cause patient discomfort, nerve damage, or petechiae.

Question 5

Which of the following is essential when labeling a specimen?

Accepted Answer

Patient ID and collection details

Answer

Accurate labeling of a specimen with patient identification and collection details is paramount for patient safety and accurate diagnosis. Mislabeling can lead to serious medical errors, including incorrect treatment or diagnosis, making it a critical step in the collection process. Essential information typically includes the patient's full name, date of birth, medical record number, date and time of collection, and the collector's initials.

NPS - National Performance Specialists Certification Practice Test

NPS - National Performance Specialists Certification Practice Test

Free NPS Specimen Collection & Handling Questions and Answers