NAPTP Specimen Processing and Handling 2

Question 1

Which of the following is a pre-analytical error that affects specimen quality?

Accepted Answer

Collecting a specimen from an IV line without proper protocol

Answer

Incorrect reagent calibration in the lab

Answer

Using expired analyzer reagents

Answer

Entering results in the wrong patient record

Question 2

How should aliquots be labeled when dividing a specimen into multiple tubes?

Accepted Answer

Each aliquot must be labeled with the same patient information as the original

Answer

Only the original tube needs a label

Answer

Aliquots are labeled with a sequential number only

Answer

Aliquots are labeled by the receiving department

Question 3

The recommended centrifuge speed for most routine serum or plasma separations is:

Accepted Answer

1,000–2,000 × g for 10 minutes

Answer

500 × g for 15 minutes

Answer

3,000–4,000 × g for 5 minutes

Answer

10,000 × g for 1 minute

Question 4

Which specimen requires protection from light during transport and processing?

Accepted Answer

Bilirubin

Answer

Basic metabolic panel

Answer

PT/INR

Answer

Glucose

Question 5

What is the purpose of a separator gel in SST or PST tubes?

Accepted Answer

To act as a physical barrier between cells and serum/plasma after centrifugation

Answer

To prevent clotting of the specimen

Answer

To add anticoagulant to the blood

Answer

To preserve RNA for molecular testing

Question 6

When must a phlebotomist reject a specimen and request a redraw?

Accepted Answer

If the specimen is grossly hemolyzed and the test is affected by hemolysis

Answer

If the tube was filled to exactly the correct level

Answer

If the tube was mixed by gentle inversion 8 times

Answer

If the specimen arrived within 30 minutes of collection

Question 7

For a urine culture specimen, the appropriate container is:

Accepted Answer

A sterile urine cup with a tight-fitting lid

Answer

A red-top evacuated tube

Answer

A gray-top tube with sodium fluoride

Answer

A standard non-sterile plastic cup