National Center for Competency Testing Flashcards

Which NCCT certification is specifically designed for phlebotomy technicians?

Answer: NCPT

The NCCT offers the National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT) credential for phlebotomy professionals.

When performing a venipuncture, the tourniquet should be released within how many minutes to prevent hemoconcentration?

Answer: 1 minute

The tourniquet must be released within 1 minute of application to prevent hemoconcentration and inaccurate lab results.

Which gauge needle is most commonly used for routine adult venipuncture?

Answer: 21-gauge

21-gauge needles are the standard choice for routine adult venipuncture, balancing patient comfort and adequate blood flow.

A phlebotomist notices a patient's arm has a hematoma at the intended venipuncture site. What is the correct action?

Answer: Select a vein proximal to or away from the hematoma

Drawing proximal to or away from a hematoma prevents collecting hemolyzed blood and causing further bruising.

Which of the following is the correct order of draw for a serum separator tube (SST) followed by an EDTA tube?

Answer: SST first, then EDTA

The SST (gold/red-gray top) is drawn before EDTA (lavender top) to prevent anticoagulant carryover that could affect coagulation studies.

What does the acronym OSHA stand for in the context of phlebotomy workplace safety?

Answer: Occupational Safety and Health Administration

OSHA — Occupational Safety and Health Administration — sets and enforces workplace safety standards including bloodborne pathogen regulations.

Which antiseptic is used to cleanse the venipuncture site before a routine blood draw?

Answer: 70% isopropyl alcohol

70% isopropyl alcohol is the standard antiseptic for routine venipuncture site preparation, allowed to air-dry before needle insertion.