Phlebotomy Venipuncture Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

A phlebotomist is preparing for a routine venipuncture on an adult patient. Which of the following is the most critical first step in this procedure?

Accepted Answer

Positively identifying the patient

Answer

Selecting the appropriate gauge needle

Answer

Applying the tourniquet

Answer

Palpating for a suitable vein

Question 2

During a venipuncture, the patient complains of a sharp, radiating pain down their arm. The phlebotomist should immediately:

Accepted Answer

Release the tourniquet, remove the needle, and apply pressure

Answer

Continue the draw but pull back on the needle slightly

Answer

Ask the patient to make a fist to improve blood flow

Answer

Re-angle the needle to find a better position

Question 3

What is the proper angle for needle insertion during a routine venipuncture in the antecubital fossa?

Accepted Answer

15 to 30 degrees

Answer

5 to 10 degrees

Answer

45 to 60 degrees

Answer

90 degrees

Question 4

A phlebotomist must draw blood for a coagulation test, a complete blood count (CBC), and a serum chemistry panel. Which is the correct order of draw using the evacuated tube system?

Accepted Answer

Light Blue top (sodium citrate), Red top (serum), Lavender top (EDTA)

Answer

Red top (serum), Lavender top (EDTA), Light Blue top (sodium citrate)

Answer

Lavender top (EDTA), Light Blue top (sodium citrate), Red top (serum)

Answer

Red top (serum), Light Blue top (sodium citrate), Lavender top (EDTA)

Question 5

Which of the following veins is the last choice for venipuncture due to its proximity to the brachial artery and median nerve?

Accepted Answer

Basilic vein

Answer

Median cubital vein

Answer

Cephalic vein

Answer

Dorsal metacarpal veins

Question 6

After removing the needle from the patient's arm, what is the correct immediate post-venipuncture instruction for the patient?

Accepted Answer

Apply firm pressure to the gauze over the site without bending the arm.

Answer

Bend the arm at the elbow to hold the gauze in place.

Answer

Remove the gauze immediately to check if bleeding has stopped.

Answer

Pump their fist several times to restore circulation.