NCCT - National Certified Phlebotomy Technician Capillary and Special Collections Questions and Answers

Question 1

When performing a capillary puncture on a newborn for a metabolic screening, which of the following actions is a critical step to ensure a valid specimen?

Accepted Answer

Applying a single, large drop of blood to completely saturate each circle on the filter paper.

Answer

Using the first drop of blood to ensure a sufficient quantity is collected.

Answer

Puncturing the posterior curvature of the infant's heel.

Answer

Applying strong, continuous pressure to the heel to speed up blood flow.

Question 2

A phlebotomist needs to collect a capillary blood specimen for a complete blood count (CBC), a serum chemistry test, and a blood smear. According to CLSI guidelines, what is the correct order of draw for these microcollection tubes?

Accepted Answer

EDTA (lavender), Blood smear, Serum (red/gold)

Answer

Blood smear, EDTA (lavender), Serum (red/gold)

Answer

Serum (red/gold), EDTA (lavender), Blood smear

Answer

Blood smear, Serum (red/gold), EDTA (lavender)

Question 3

When collecting a blood sample for a legal blood alcohol content (BAC) test, which of the following is the most appropriate cleansing agent to use for site preparation?

Accepted Answer

Non-alcohol based antiseptic, such as benzalkonium chloride

Answer

70% Isopropyl alcohol

Answer

Tincture of iodine

Answer

Povidone-iodine

Question 4

A phlebotomist is performing a heel stick on an infant. To avoid the risk of osteomyelitis, the puncture should be made on which part of the heel?

Accepted Answer

The medial or lateral plantar surface of the heel

Answer

The posterior curvature of the heel

Answer

The central arch area of the plantar surface

Answer

Any previously punctured site that has healed

Question 5

During a blood culture collection using a butterfly needle and an evacuated tube system, a phlebotomist must fill both an aerobic and an anaerobic bottle. Which bottle should be filled first and why?

Accepted Answer

The aerobic bottle, to ensure any air in the butterfly tubing is drawn into it.

Answer

The anaerobic bottle, to prevent air in the tubing from entering the bottle.

Answer

The aerobic bottle, as it is less susceptible to contamination.

Answer

The anaerobic bottle, because it contains more additives.

Question 6

Which of the following is a key requirement for a specimen collected for legal or forensic purposes, such as paternity testing or a legal drug screen?

Accepted Answer

A complete chain-of-custody form must be maintained.

Answer

The patient must provide a government-issued photo ID.

Answer

The collection must be witnessed by a law enforcement officer.

Answer

The specimen must be transported to the lab within one hour.