NCCT Collection Complications and Corrections 2

Question 1

A patient develops a large, painful swelling at the venipuncture site during blood draw. What is the most likely complication?

Accepted Answer

Hematoma

Answer

A hematoma forms when blood leaks from the vein into the surrounding tissue, causing visible swelling and pain at the puncture site.

Question 2

What should a phlebotomist do if a patient begins to faint during venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

Remove the needle, apply pressure, and lower the patient's head

Answer

The draw must be discontinued immediately. The needle is removed, pressure applied, and the patient's head lowered to restore blood flow to the brain.

Question 3

Which of the following conditions makes a patient more susceptible to hematoma formation?

Accepted Answer

Anticoagulant therapy

Answer

Patients on anticoagulant therapy have impaired clotting ability, making them more prone to bleeding and hematoma formation at the puncture site.

Question 4

A blood specimen appears hemolyzed (pink/red serum). Which of the following most likely caused this?

Accepted Answer

Drawing blood through an IV line

Answer

Drawing blood through an IV line can cause hemolysis because the fluid pressure and catheter bore size can damage red blood cells.

Question 5

What is the most common cause of specimen rejection by the laboratory?

Accepted Answer

Mislabeled or unlabeled specimen

Answer

Mislabeled or unlabeled specimens are the most common reason for rejection because they pose the highest risk to patient safety from potential misidentification.

NCCT - National Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test

NCCT - National Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam Practice Test

NCCT Collection Complications and Corrections 2