Phlebotomy and Specimen Collection Flashcards

Which of the following describes the correct technique for a two-bottle blood culture draw?

Answer: Aerobic bottle filled first, then anaerobic

When using a winged (butterfly) set, the aerobic bottle is filled first to allow any air in the tubing to enter the aerobic (air-tolerant) bottle.

A specimen labeled 'QNS' means:

Answer: Quantity not sufficient

QNS stands for 'quantity not sufficient,' meaning the volume of specimen collected was inadequate for the ordered test.

Which action BEST prevents hematoma formation after venipuncture?

Answer: Applying firm, direct pressure with the arm extended

Firm direct pressure with the arm extended prevents blood from leaking into surrounding tissue and forming a hematoma.

Which specimen collection requirement applies to a 24-hour urine collection for creatinine clearance?

Answer: Discard the first void, then collect all urine for 24 hours

The first morning void is discarded to start timing, then all subsequent urine for exactly 24 hours is collected and kept refrigerated.

A patient has an IV running in the left antecubital fossa. Where should the phlebotomist collect the blood specimen?

Answer: From the right arm

Blood should be drawn from the opposite arm to avoid IV fluid dilution or contamination of the specimen.

Which test is used to screen newborns for phenylketonuria (PKU) using a capillary heel stick dried blood spot?

Answer: Guthrie test / newborn screening card

The Guthrie test using dried blood spots on a newborn screening filter paper card detects PKU and other metabolic disorders.

What is the primary reason a phlebotomist must identify the patient using TWO identifiers before specimen collection?

Answer: To prevent patient misidentification and specimen labeling errors

Two-identifier verification (e.g., name and DOB) is a Joint Commission safety requirement to prevent wrong-patient specimen errors.