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Laboratory Terminology and Communication Flashcards

6 cards from real NCCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Laboratory Terminology and Communication flashcards as text

  1. What does the abbreviation 'STAT' mean in a laboratory order?

    Answer: Immediately/urgent

    STAT (from Latin 'statim') means immediately, indicating an urgent test that must be collected and processed without delay.

  2. What does 'NPO' mean on a patient's order?

    Answer: Nothing by mouth

    NPO (nil per os) means the patient must not eat or drink anything, which is critical to know before collecting fasting specimens.

  3. Which abbreviation refers to a test ordered to monitor a drug at its lowest blood concentration?

    Answer: Trough

    A trough level is drawn just before the next drug dose to measure the minimum drug concentration in the bloodstream.

  4. What does the term 'hemolysis' mean in the context of a specimen?

    Answer: Rupture of red blood cells releasing hemoglobin

    Hemolysis occurs when red blood cells break apart, releasing hemoglobin and intracellular contents that can interfere with many lab tests.

  5. What does 'QNS' mean on a laboratory report?

    Answer: Quantity not sufficient

    QNS (Quantity Not Sufficient) indicates the collected specimen volume was inadequate to perform the required laboratory testing.

  6. What is a 'requisition' in phlebotomy?

    Answer: A written or electronic order for laboratory tests

    A requisition is the official order from a physician or authorized provider that lists the tests to be performed and relevant patient information.

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