NCCT - National Certified Phlebotomy Technician Patient Identification and Preparation Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following is the most critical and mandatory step for proper patient identification in a hospital setting?

Accepted Answer

Actively comparing the requisition information with the patient's wristband.

Answer

Asking the patient to state their full name and date of birth.

Answer

Matching the name on the requisition form to the name on the patient's door.

Answer

Verifying the patient's identity with a family member present in the room.

Question 2

A phlebotomist arrives to draw blood from an outpatient. The patient's stated name matches the requisition, but the date of birth is different. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Do not draw the blood and ask the nurse or ordering physician to resolve the discrepancy.

Answer

Proceed with the draw since the name is correct.

Answer

Ask the patient for another form of photo identification.

Answer

Correct the date of birth on the requisition and proceed.

Question 3

When preparing to draw blood for a fasting glucose test, the phlebotomist asks the patient if they have been fasting. The patient replies, "Yes, I haven't eaten since last night, but I did have a small cup of black coffee this morning." What should the phlebotomist do?

Accepted Answer

Inform the patient that coffee can affect the results and consult with the nurse or physician before proceeding.

Answer

Proceed with the draw as black coffee does not affect the results.

Answer

Tell the patient to drink a glass of water to dilute the coffee and then proceed.

Answer

Cancel the test and reschedule for the next day.

Question 4

Which of the following actions is a key component of obtaining informed consent before performing a venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

Explaining the procedure, its purpose, and potential risks like bruising or fainting.

Answer

Having the patient sign a detailed legal document for every routine draw.

Answer

Assuming consent if the patient extends their arm for the procedure.

Answer

Only obtaining consent from the patient's primary care physician.

Question 5

To ensure the integrity of the specimen and the safety of the patient, when is the correct time to label the blood collection tubes?

Accepted Answer

Immediately after the blood is drawn, in the presence of the patient.

Answer

Before entering the patient's room to save time.

Answer

At the nurse's station after collecting all samples for the floor.

Answer

After the patient has left the outpatient draw station.

Question 6

A phlebotomist is preparing to draw blood from an anxious patient who has a history of fainting. Which of the following is the BEST preparation step to take?

Accepted Answer

Have the patient lie down in a supine position for the draw.

Answer

Tell the patient to look away and think about something else.

Answer

Perform the venipuncture as quickly as possible to get it over with.

Answer

Offer the patient a sugary drink to calm their nerves.