VTNE Clinical Laboratory Procedures 4

Question 1

What is the normal packed cell volume (PCV) range for adult dogs?

Accepted Answer

37–55%

Answer

The normal PCV (hematocrit) for adult dogs is approximately 37–55%, with values below 37% indicating anemia.

Question 2

A cat's blood smear shows many erythrocytes with refractile inclusions near the cell membrane that stain blue with new methylene blue. This is MOST consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Heinz bodies

Answer

Heinz bodies are aggregates of denatured hemoglobin that stain with supravital stains like new methylene blue and are common in cats due to their susceptibility to oxidative damage.

Question 3

When collecting a urine sample by cystocentesis, which needle gauge and direction is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

22-gauge needle, directed into the bladder body

Answer

A 22-gauge needle directed into the body of the bladder is standard for cystocentesis to minimize trauma and obtain a sterile sample.

Question 4

Which chemistry value would you expect to be ELEVATED in a patient with cholestasis?

Accepted Answer

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

Answer

ALP is an enzyme that leaks from biliary epithelial cells during cholestasis, making it a key marker of bile duct obstruction or hepatobiliary disease.

Question 5

In a complete urinalysis, crystals identified as colorless coffin-lid shaped structures are most likely:

Accepted Answer

Struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate)

Answer

Struvite crystals classically appear as colorless three-to-six-sided 'coffin-lid' prisms and are common in alkaline urine.

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test

VTNE Clinical Laboratory Procedures 4