CMA Certified Medical Assistant Diagnostic Testing and Laboratory Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which tube color is used for a complete blood count (CBC)?

Accepted Answer

Lavender (EDTA)

Answer

The lavender-top tube contains EDTA, an anticoagulant that preserves cell morphology for CBC testing.

Question 2

What is the correct order of draw when collecting multiple blood tubes via venipuncture?

Accepted Answer

Light blue, red/SST, green, lavender

Answer

The standard order of draw is: light blue, red/SST, green, lavender, gray to prevent cross-contamination of additives.

Question 3

Which of the following is the BEST site for a capillary puncture in an adult?

Accepted Answer

The fingertip (lateral aspect of the third or fourth finger)

Answer

The lateral aspect of the third or fourth fingertip is the preferred adult capillary puncture site because it has good blood flow and less pain.

Question 4

A urine dipstick test showing a positive result for nitrites most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Bacterial urinary tract infection

Answer

Nitrites in urine are produced by bacteria (especially gram-negative organisms) and are a strong indicator of a UTI.

Question 5

Which of the following actions should be performed BEFORE collecting a midstream clean-catch urine specimen?

Accepted Answer

Instruct the patient to cleanse the urethral area, void briefly, then collect mid-stream

Answer

Proper clean-catch technique requires cleansing the perineal area and discarding the initial urine stream to reduce contamination.

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