Phlebotomy Test Point of Care Testing 2

Question 1

Which POCT test is used to monitor patients on heparin therapy in an acute care setting?

Accepted Answer

Activated clotting time (ACT)

Answer

Activated clotting time (ACT) is a bedside POCT used to monitor unfractionated heparin therapy, especially in cardiac catheterization labs and surgical suites.

Question 2

When using a glucose meter for POCT, the operator must enter a lot number or scan a barcode before testing. This step primarily ensures:

Accepted Answer

The correct calibration data matches the test strips in use

Answer

Entering the lot number or scanning the test strip code loads the correct calibration data specific to that batch of strips, ensuring accurate results.

Question 3

A POCT urine dipstick result shows leukocyte esterase 2+ and nitrite positive. These findings together are MOST consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Urinary tract infection

Answer

The combination of positive leukocyte esterase (WBCs in urine) and positive nitrite (bacteria converting nitrates) is the classic dipstick pattern for a UTI.

Question 4

What is the purpose of running both high and low controls on a POCT device?

Accepted Answer

To verify the device performs accurately across the reportable range

Answer

Running high and low controls verifies that the device produces accurate results at both extremes of the reportable range, catching errors that affect only one end of the scale.

Question 5

Which specimen type is required for a fingerstick HbA1c test at the point of care?

Accepted Answer

Capillary whole blood

Answer

POCT HbA1c analyzers use capillary whole blood obtained via fingerstick, which contains the red blood cells needed to measure glycated hemoglobin.

Phlebotomy Practice Test

Phlebotomy Practice Test

Phlebotomy Test Point of Care Testing 2