NCCT - National Certified Phlebotomy Technician Venipuncture Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a venipuncture, the patient complains of a sharp, radiating pain down their arm. The phlebotomist notes that blood is filling the tube slowly. What is the most probable cause of this situation?

Accepted Answer

The needle has likely contacted a nerve.

Answer

The needle has entered an artery instead of a vein.

Answer

A hematoma is forming due to partial vein entry.

Answer

The bevel of the needle is pressed against the vein wall.

Question 2

A phlebotomist needs to perform a venipuncture on a patient with an active IV line in the right forearm. Which of the following is the appropriate site selection for the blood draw?

Accepted Answer

The left arm, preferably in the antecubital fossa.

Answer

Above the IV site on the right arm after pausing the infusion.

Answer

Any prominent vein on the right hand.

Answer

Below the IV site on the right arm.

Question 3

While performing a venipuncture, a hematoma begins to form at the site. Which of the following is the phlebotomist's immediate and most critical course of action?

Accepted Answer

Release the tourniquet, remove the needle, and apply firm pressure.

Answer

Complete the draw as quickly as possible.

Answer

Apply a cold compress to the swelling.

Answer

Reposition the needle slightly to see if the swelling subsides.

Question 4

A competent adult patient verbally refuses to have their blood drawn after the phlebotomist has explained the procedure. What is the most appropriate action for the phlebotomist to take?

Accepted Answer

Respect the patient's decision, document the refusal, and notify the nurse or physician.

Answer

Explain that the doctor ordered the test and it must be done.

Answer

Ask a family member to convince the patient to agree.

Answer

Attempt to perform the draw quickly before the patient can object further.

Question 5

When collecting blood cultures, which of the following steps is crucial for preventing contamination of the specimen with skin flora?

Accepted Answer

Cleansing the bottle tops and the venipuncture site with an appropriate antiseptic.

Answer

Using a tourniquet to make the vein more prominent.

Answer

Inverting the bottles gently 8-10 times after collection.

Answer

Drawing the anaerobic bottle before the aerobic bottle when using a syringe.

Question 6

Which of the following venipuncture sites should be avoided because of its close proximity to the brachial artery and median nerve?

Accepted Answer

Basilic vein

Answer

Cephalic vein

Answer

Dorsal hand veins

Answer

Median cubital vein