Lab Procedures Flashcards

A patient's potassium result comes back critically elevated at 6.8 mEq/L. What is the PCT's first action?

Answer: Immediately notify the nurse or supervising clinician

A critically elevated potassium is a life-threatening value requiring immediate clinician notification per critical value protocols.

Which tube is used when the laboratory requires serum for a chemistry test?

Answer: Red or gold (SST) tube

Red or gold serum separator tubes allow blood to clot; after centrifugation, serum is separated for chemistry testing.

What is the purpose of a buffy coat in a centrifuged blood specimen?

Answer: It is the layer of white blood cells and platelets between red cells and plasma

The buffy coat is the thin white layer between packed red cells and plasma that contains leukocytes and platelets.

During a venipuncture, a hematoma begins to form at the puncture site. The PCT should:

Answer: Remove the needle immediately and apply firm pressure

A hematoma indicates blood leaking into surrounding tissue; the needle must be removed and firm pressure applied to stop bleeding.

Which urine color finding should be immediately reported to the nurse?

Answer: Red or cola-colored urine

Red or cola-colored urine can indicate hematuria or hemoglobinuria, both of which may signal serious medical conditions.

What does the acronym POCT stand for in a clinical laboratory setting?

Answer: Point-of-Care Testing

Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) refers to diagnostic tests performed at or near the patient's location rather than in a central laboratory.

A PCT is collecting blood from a patient in isolation for MRSA. Which PPE is required before entering the room?

Answer: Gloves, gown, and surgical mask or N95 per facility policy

Contact precautions for MRSA require gloves and gown at minimum; a mask is added if splash risk or respiratory precautions apply per policy.