Point-of-Care Testing Flashcards
7 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 7 Point-of-Care Testing flashcards as text
What is the primary definition of point-of-care testing (POCT)?
Answer: Diagnostic testing performed near or at the site of patient care
POCT is diagnostic testing performed at or near the location of the patient, enabling rapid results without sending specimens to a central laboratory.
Which of the following is the most common POCT device used to measure capillary blood glucose?
Answer: Glucometer
A glucometer (glucose meter) is the most widely used POCT device and measures blood glucose from a small capillary blood sample.
What is the primary advantage of POCT over central laboratory testing?
Answer: Faster turnaround time for results
The main advantage of POCT is a significantly faster turnaround time, allowing clinicians to make immediate treatment decisions at the patient's bedside.
Which quality control measure is mandatory before performing POCT on a patient sample?
Answer: Running both high and low control solutions on the POCT device
Running both high and low control solutions verifies that the POCT device is performing within acceptable ranges before patient testing.
When performing a POCT glucose test using capillary blood, which finger site is preferred?
Answer: Ring or middle finger of the non-dominant hand
The ring or middle finger of the non-dominant hand is preferred because it is less calloused and the patient relies less on it for daily activities.
Which regulatory body requires that POCT facilities comply with CLIA standards?
Answer: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
CMS enforces CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) regulations, which apply to all laboratories including POCT sites.
Which of the following tests is NOT typically classified as a POCT test?
Answer: Complete blood count (CBC) by automated differential
A full CBC with automated differential requires complex hematology analyzers found in central laboratories and is not performed as standard POCT.
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