Phlebotomy Fundamentals Flashcards
7 cards from real Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Phlebotomy Fundamentals flashcards as text
Which gauge needle is most commonly used for routine venipuncture in adults?
Answer: 21 gauge
A 21-gauge needle is the standard for routine adult venipuncture, balancing adequate flow with patient comfort.
What is the proper angle of needle insertion for venipuncture?
Answer: 15–30 degrees
A 15–30 degree angle allows the needle to enter the vein lumen without passing through the posterior wall.
Which tube is drawn FIRST in the recommended order of draw?
Answer: Blood culture bottles
Blood culture bottles are drawn first to minimize contamination risk before any additives are introduced.
A patient's arm is edematous at the antecubital fossa. What is the best action?
Answer: Select an alternate site such as the forearm or hand
Edematous tissue traps interstitial fluid that can dilute the specimen, so an alternate unaffected site must be chosen.
What does the term 'hemoconcentration' refer to in phlebotomy?
Answer: Elevation of non-filterable blood components due to fluid shift
Hemoconcentration occurs when a tourniquet is left on too long, causing plasma to shift into tissue and concentrating cellular components.
Which additive in the green-top tube prevents clotting by binding calcium?
Answer: Lithium heparin
Lithium heparin inhibits thrombin and thromboplastin, preventing clot formation without binding calcium directly, but it is the anticoagulant in green-top tubes.
A patient reports feeling faint during venipuncture. What is the FIRST action to take?
Answer: Remove the needle and have the patient lower their head or lie down
Removing the needle immediately and positioning the patient to improve cerebral blood flow prevents injury from a vasovagal syncope episode.