Specimen Collection & Handling Flashcards

What is the first step after an accidental needlestick?

Answer: Wash the site with soap and water and report immediately

Prompt washing and reporting starts post-exposure evaluation and prophylaxis.

Which urine collection method reduces contamination from the urethra?

Answer: Midstream clean-catch

Midstream clean-catch avoids the first flow, which carries urethral flora.

How does a 24-hour urine collection properly begin?

Answer: Discard the first void and then collect all urine for 24 hours

Discarding the first void starts with an empty bladder, so the whole timed volume is captured.

Which needle gauge is standard for routine adult venipuncture?

Answer: 21 gauge

A 21-gauge needle balances flow and patient comfort in most adult veins.

A patient has an IV infusion in the right arm. Where should blood be drawn?

Answer: The opposite arm

Drawing from the opposite arm avoids dilution from the infusing fluid.

Which arm should generally be avoided for venipuncture?

Answer: The side of a mastectomy

Lymphatic disruption increases risk of swelling and infection on the affected side.

What is the correct needle position at insertion for venipuncture?

Answer: Bevel up at about 15–30 degrees

A shallow bevel-up angle gives smooth entry and lessens vein penetration through the far wall.