Phlebotomy Test Point of Care Testing 3

Question 1

Which CLIA waiver requirement must a phlebotomist follow even for the simplest POCT devices?

Accepted Answer

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU)

Answer

Even waived tests require following the manufacturer's instructions exactly; this is the primary CLIA requirement for waived testing.

Question 2

A POCT INR result of 5.8 is obtained on a patient taking warfarin. This result is considered:

Accepted Answer

A critical value requiring immediate provider notification

Answer

An INR of 5.8 is dangerously elevated and represents a critical value; the patient is at high risk for serious bleeding and requires immediate clinical intervention.

Question 3

For POCT testing, liquid quality control should be run:

Accepted Answer

Per manufacturer guidelines and facility policy, typically each shift or each day of use

Answer

QC frequency for POCT must follow manufacturer guidelines and facility policy; most devices require QC each shift, each day of testing, or each new reagent lot.

Question 4

Which analyte is measured by a POCT i-STAT device using a creatinine cartridge?

Accepted Answer

Serum creatinine for kidney function assessment

Answer

The i-STAT creatinine cartridge measures blood (serum) creatinine, a key marker of kidney function, allowing rapid bedside assessment.

Question 5

A phlebotomist performing POCT notices that the QC result is within range but the patient's glucose result seems inconsistent with their clinical presentation (the patient appears diaphoretic and confused but the meter reads 120 mg/dL). The BEST action is to:

Accepted Answer

Repeat the test or collect a venous sample for lab glucose

Answer

When a POCT result conflicts with clinical presentation, the result should be repeated or confirmed with a laboratory venous glucose, as meters have known sources of error.

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Phlebotomy Test Point of Care Testing 3