Specimen Processing and Handling Flashcards

Which temperature range is appropriate for storing most serum chemistry specimens awaiting testing?

Answer: Refrigerated at 2–8°C

Most serum chemistry specimens can be stored at 2–8°C (refrigerated) to slow enzymatic degradation while awaiting analysis.

A clotted specimen is submitted in a lavender (EDTA) tube. What should the phlebotomist do?

Answer: Reject the specimen and collect a new one

A clotted EDTA specimen cannot be used for hematology testing because platelets and cells are trapped in the clot, making cell counts inaccurate; a recollection is required.

How many times should a tube with an anticoagulant additive be inverted after collection?

Answer: 8–10 times gently

Anticoagulant tubes should be gently inverted 8–10 times to thoroughly mix the additive with blood without causing hemolysis.

Which of the following specimens is most stable and can be stored at room temperature for the longest time before testing?

Answer: Urinalysis dipstick

A urinalysis dipstick specimen is relatively stable at room temperature for up to 2 hours, whereas ABG, ammonia, and glucose without preservative degrade rapidly.

What does 'chain of custody' mean in the context of specimen handling?

Answer: A documented, unbroken record of specimen possession from collection to testing

Chain of custody is a documented record ensuring that a specimen's integrity and possession are tracked continuously, required for forensic or legal specimens such as drug screens.

Icterus in a specimen is caused by elevated levels of:

Answer: Bilirubin

Icterus (icteric specimen) is the yellow-orange discoloration of serum or plasma caused by elevated bilirubin, commonly seen in jaundiced patients.

When a specimen requires immediate processing but no centrifuge is available, the phlebotomist should:

Answer: Notify the laboratory and follow facility protocol for STAT escalation

When equipment is unavailable, the phlebotomist must notify the laboratory supervisor and follow STAT escalation protocols to ensure patient care is not compromised.