- Medical Laboratory Professionals Association of Ontario Specimen Collection and Handling Questions and Answers Flashcards
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When performing venipuncture, the tourniquet should be removed from the patient's arm at what point?
Answer: After the last tube has been filled and before needle removal
The tourniquet should be released after the last tube is filled and before the needle is withdrawn to prevent hematoma formation and restore normal circulation.
For a coagulation test such as PT/INR, which is the correct blood-to-anticoagulant ratio in a sodium citrate (blue top) tube?
Answer: 9:1
The correct blood-to-anticoagulant ratio for sodium citrate tubes used in coagulation testing is 9 parts blood to 1 part citrate (9:1).
What is the correct order of draw when collecting blood in multiple tube types during a single venipuncture?
Answer: Blood Culture → Sodium Citrate → Serum → Heparin → EDTA → Glucose
The correct CLSI order of draw is: blood culture, sodium citrate (blue), serum/SST (red/gold), heparin (green), EDTA (purple), glucose/fluoride (grey).
A 2-year-old patient requires blood collection. Which specimen collection method is most appropriate?
Answer: Capillary puncture from the heel or fingertip using a lancet
Capillary puncture is the preferred method for young children as it is less invasive, requires smaller volumes, and is appropriate for the types of tests typically ordered in pediatric patients.
Which of the following specimens requires protection from light during transport and storage?
Answer: Serum or plasma for bilirubin analysis
Bilirubin is photosensitive and degrades rapidly when exposed to light. Specimens for bilirubin analysis must be protected from light during collection, transport, and storage.
What is the maximum time a peripheral blood smear should be made after collecting an EDTA blood sample for accurate WBC differential?
Answer: Within 30 minutes of collection
Blood smears for WBC differential should ideally be made within 30 minutes of collection to prevent cellular morphology changes, particularly neutrophil lobulation and lymphocyte vacuolation.