NHI Phlebotomy and Lab Procedures 4

Question 1

Which situation requires a phlebotomist to re-identify a patient before specimen collection?

Accepted Answer

Every time, regardless of how recently the patient was identified

Answer

Patient identification must occur every single collection encounter, without exception, to prevent specimen mislabeling errors.

Question 2

A hemolyzed specimen will most likely cause a falsely ELEVATED result for which analyte?

Accepted Answer

Potassium

Answer

Red blood cells contain high concentrations of potassium; hemolysis releases intracellular potassium, falsely elevating serum potassium values.

Question 3

What does the term 'antecubital fossa' refer to in phlebotomy?

Accepted Answer

The area in the bend of the elbow where veins are accessed

Answer

The antecubital fossa is the triangular depression anterior to the elbow joint, the primary site for routine venipuncture.

Question 4

What is the proper technique for mixing an anticoagulated tube after collection?

Accepted Answer

Invert gently 8–10 times

Answer

Gentle inversion 8–10 times ensures thorough mixing of blood with the anticoagulant without causing hemolysis.

Question 5

Which needle gauge would deliver the FASTEST blood flow during venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

21 gauge

Answer

Lower gauge numbers indicate wider bore needles; a 21-gauge needle allows faster flow than 23, 25, or 27 gauge needles.

(NHI) National Healthcareer Institute Certification Practice Test