Phlebotomy and Lab Procedures Flashcards

What is the recommended angle of needle insertion for standard venipuncture?

Answer: 15–30 degrees

A 15–30 degree angle allows the needle to enter the vein smoothly without passing through the posterior wall.

Which evacuated tube color is used for serum chemistry tests and contains a clot activator?

Answer: Gold/Red-gray SST

Gold or red-gray serum separator tubes (SSTs) contain silica particles that activate clotting and a gel that separates serum from the clot after centrifugation.

A specimen labeled 'QNS' has been rejected by the laboratory. What does QNS mean?

Answer: Quantity Not Sufficient

QNS means 'Quantity Not Sufficient,' indicating the specimen volume is inadequate to perform the ordered tests.

When performing capillary puncture on an infant's heel, which area should be AVOIDED?

Answer: Central posterior curvature of the heel

The central posterior curvature of the heel is too close to the calcaneus bone, risking osteomyelitis (bone infection) in infants.

Which type of specimen collection is used for blood cultures to detect systemic infection?

Answer: Two separate venipunctures, each yielding aerobic and anaerobic bottles

Blood cultures require two separate venipuncture sites to reduce false positives from contamination, each yielding aerobic and anaerobic culture bottles.

What is the correct action if a patient faints (syncope) during blood collection?

Answer: Remove the needle, lower the patient's head, and call for assistance

The needle must be removed immediately for safety, the patient's head lowered to restore cerebral blood flow, and assistance summoned.

Which laboratory test requires a light blue (sodium citrate) tube and a 9:1 blood-to-additive ratio?

Answer: Prothrombin time (PT/INR)

Coagulation tests like PT/INR use light blue tubes with sodium citrate, and the 9:1 ratio is critical for accurate coagulation results.