Official NCCT Phlebotomy Certification Exam Review

Pathology is the study of all aspects of disease in the body. It involves the examination of organs, tissues, and bodily fluids to diagnose and understand the nature of diseases. This field helps in identifying the causes, mechanisms, and effects of diseases, as well as developing treatment strategies. Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood, hematology is the study of blood and blood disorders, and histology is the study of tissues. However, none of these options encompass the broad study of all aspects of disease in the body like pathology does.

A 24-hour urine specimen must be kept refrigerated to prevent the growth of bacteria and maintain the stability of any substances present in the urine. Refrigeration helps to slow down the enzymatic and bacterial activity that can occur at room temperature, preserving the integrity of the specimen for accurate testing and analysis.

Ethics is the correct answer because it is the term that refers to right and wrong conduct. It encompasses the principles and values that guide individuals and societies in determining what is morally right and morally wrong. Empathy and sympathy are related to understanding and sharing the feelings of others, while rights refer to entitlements and privileges. Therefore, ethics is the most appropriate term in this context.

Red blood cells are also known as erythrocytes. This is because they contain a protein called hemoglobin, which gives them their characteristic red color. Erythrocytes are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and removing carbon dioxide. They are the most abundant cells in the blood and play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and functioning of the body.

The classification of a physician's office laboratory (POL) is determined by the complexity of the laboratory tests performed. This means that the level of complexity of the tests conducted in the POL will determine the classification it falls into. The complexity of laboratory tests refers to the level of skill, knowledge, and technology required to perform the tests accurately and interpret the results. The classification is important as it determines the regulations, certifications, and quality control measures that need to be followed by the POL.

Within the capillaries, blood cell functions include releasing oxygen, binding carbon dioxide, and eliminating waste. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the body and play a crucial role in the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and surrounding tissues. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, and within the capillaries, they release oxygen to the cells and bind carbon dioxide for transport back to the lungs. Additionally, white blood cells help in eliminating waste and fighting off infections within the capillaries. Therefore, all of the given options are correct.

Arteries can be distinguished from veins because arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the rest of the body, while veins carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Arteries have thicker walls and are more muscular compared to veins. They also have a pulsating sensation caused by the rhythmic pumping of blood by the heart. Therefore, the correct answer is "pulsating".

During a venipuncture, blood may seep into the surrounding tissue, causing a hematoma to form. A hematoma is a localized collection of blood outside the blood vessels, typically caused by damage to the blood vessels during the procedure. This can result in swelling, pain, and discoloration in the affected area.

When performing a skin puncture, squeezing the finger too tightly may dilute the blood with tissue fluid and ruin the test. This is because squeezing the finger too tightly can cause the release of tissue fluid, which is the clear fluid found in tissues. If this tissue fluid mixes with the blood sample, it can alter the composition and concentration of the blood, potentially leading to inaccurate test results. Therefore, it is important to avoid squeezing the finger too tightly during a skin puncture to ensure the integrity of the blood sample.

Adult capillary punctures most often involve the use of the third and fourth fingers, also known as the middle and ring fingers. These fingers are commonly used because they have a good blood supply and are less sensitive compared to the index and little fingers. Using these fingers for capillary punctures minimizes discomfort for the patient and allows for an easier and more successful blood collection.

A rubber or plastic tube used to drain or inject fluid through a body opening is called a catheter. This medical device is inserted into the body to either remove fluids or introduce fluids into a specific area, such as the bladder or blood vessels. Catheters are commonly used in medical procedures, such as urinary catheterization or intravenous therapy.

An appropriate means of communicating with a patient who is profoundly hearing impaired might include using written communication. This is because written communication allows the patient to read and understand the message without relying on their hearing. It ensures effective communication and enables the patient to actively participate in the conversation and express their needs or concerns.

In approaching an elderly patient, it is appropriate to call the patient by name using Miss, Mrs., or Mr. This is because using formal titles shows respect and acknowledges their age and experience. Using their first name may be seen as too familiar, while using a nickname or terms like "honey" may be considered disrespectful or inappropriate.

After they are used, disposable syringes and needles, scalpel blades, and other sharp items should be placed in puncture-resistant containers for disposal. This is because these items can cause injuries if not properly contained, and puncture-resistant containers are designed to prevent accidental punctures or cuts. Using biodegradable containers would not address the issue of preventing injuries, and OSHA refers to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which is a regulatory agency that sets standards for workplace safety. Sanitized containers may not provide adequate protection against sharp objects.

If blood does not appear in an evacuated tube upon venipuncture, the phlebotomist's first course of action should be to slightly reposition or turn the needle. This is because the needle may not be properly positioned in the vein, causing the blood flow to be obstructed. By repositioning or turning the needle, the phlebotomist can ensure that the needle is correctly placed in the vein, allowing for blood to be drawn successfully.

A pre-warming technique may be used to increase a patient's tendency to bleed. Pre-warming the patient increases blood flow and vasodilation, which can make the blood vessels more prone to bleeding during procedures such as phlebotomy. This technique is often used to ensure an adequate blood sample is obtained for testing purposes.

The patient's action of making a fist and frowning indicates resistance or unwillingness to cooperate. This body language suggests that the patient is not receptive or compliant with the situation or instructions given. They may be showing signs of defiance or disagreement, which can be interpreted as uncooperative behavior.

Contaminated laundry should be bagged or containerized at the location where it was soiled. This is important to prevent the spread of any harmful substances or pathogens present in the laundry. Properly bagging or containerizing the contaminated laundry ensures that it is safely contained and can be transported without causing any further contamination or risk to individuals handling it. It also allows for easier and safer disposal or disinfection of the laundry at the location, minimizing the potential for cross-contamination or transmission of infectious agents.

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the body's immune system. They are responsible for defending the body against foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. White blood cells identify and destroy these invaders, helping to prevent infections and maintain overall health. They do this through various mechanisms such as engulfing and digesting pathogens, producing antibodies, and coordinating immune responses. Therefore, the correct answer is defending against foreign invaders.

Empathy refers to the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It involves putting oneself in someone else's shoes and seeing things from their perspective. This ability allows individuals to connect with others on a deeper level and to respond to their emotions and experiences in a compassionate and understanding manner. Empathy is important for building strong relationships, fostering understanding, and promoting kindness and empathy in society.

Bioethics is the correct answer because it refers to the branch of study that deals with moral issues, questions, and problems that arise in the practice of medicine and biomedical research. It involves examining ethical dilemmas and making decisions that consider the well-being of patients, the principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice, as well as the societal implications of medical advancements.

The aorta is the largest artery in the body and carries oxygenated blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. As it branches out, it forms smaller divisions known as arteries. These arteries further divide into even smaller divisions called arterioles. Arterioles are responsible for regulating blood flow and controlling blood pressure. They connect arteries to capillaries, which are the smallest blood vessels in the body. Therefore, arterioles are the correct answer as they are the immediate smaller divisions of arteries.

Occupational exposure refers to the reasonable possibility of coming into contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials while performing regular job duties. This can include contact with the skin, eyes, mucous membranes, or through parenteral routes. It is important to be aware of and take precautions to minimize the risk of occupational exposure in order to protect the health and safety of employees.

Neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes are all types of white blood cells. White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are an essential part of the immune system and play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and diseases. Each type of white blood cell has its own specific function and helps to protect the body in different ways.

The femoral artery is located in the groin, lateral to the femur bone, and is commonly used as an alternative site for arterial blood gas collections. This artery is easily accessible and provides a reliable source of arterial blood for analysis. The radial artery, located in the wrist, is also commonly used for arterial blood gas collections, but it is not located in the groin. The ulnar artery is another option for arterial blood gas collections, but it is not located in the groin either. The carotid artery, located in the neck, is not typically used for arterial blood gas collections.

The correct answer is mechanical means (broom/dustpan). This means that broken glassware that may be contaminated should be picked up using a broom and dustpan, rather than using bare hands or other methods. Using mechanical means helps to ensure safety and prevent injuries or contamination.

SPS (sodium polyanetholesulfonate) is recommended for use in blood cultures because it does not inhibit bacterial growth. This is important because blood cultures are used to detect the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. If the anticoagulant used in the blood culture inhibits bacterial growth, it could lead to false negative results, meaning that bacteria present in the blood may not be detected. Therefore, an anticoagulant that does not inhibit bacterial growth is preferred for accurate detection of bacterial infections through blood cultures.

When a patient provides information to medical personnel that cannot be disclosed without their consent, it is considered privileged communication. This means that the information shared between the patient and the medical personnel is confidential and protected by law. The medical personnel have a legal and ethical duty to keep this information private and not disclose it to anyone without the patient's permission. This ensures that patients feel comfortable and safe sharing sensitive information with their healthcare providers.

The higher the gauge, the smaller the needle bore. This means that as the gauge number increases, the diameter of the needle bore decreases. Therefore, a higher gauge needle will have a smaller opening compared to a lower gauge needle.

Sodium citrate is used as an anticoagulant for coagulation studies because it protects clotting factors. Clotting factors are proteins in the blood that are responsible for the formation of blood clots. By adding sodium citrate, it prevents the blood from clotting by binding to calcium ions, which are necessary for the clotting process. This allows the coagulation studies to be conducted without interference from clotting factors, ensuring accurate results.

When blood tubes are sent by mail for analysis in a watertight container, they should be enclosed in a second durable watertight container. This is necessary to ensure that the blood tubes are protected from any potential damage or leakage during transit. The second container acts as an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of contamination or breakage. It is important to maintain the integrity of the blood samples to obtain accurate and reliable test results. Therefore, using a second durable watertight container is the most appropriate choice for safely transporting blood tubes by mail.

The correct answer is "all of the above." In most hospitals, a phlebotomist with a cough may draw blood from a patient if the patient is not in reverse isolation, the phlebotomist wears a mask, and the phlebotomist does not have a fever. This means that all three conditions must be met in order for the phlebotomist to be able to draw blood from the patient.

A patient in reverse isolation has been placed in this way because they need protection from others carrying infection. This means that the patient is at a higher risk of getting an infection, so they are isolated to prevent exposure to any infectious agents that may be present in the environment or carried by other individuals. This is done to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient, as well as to prevent the spread of infection to others.

Contaminated sharps refer to objects that are contaminated and can penetrate the skin, such as needles, scalpels, broken glass, broken capillary tubes, and exposed ends of dental wires. These objects pose a risk of transmitting infections if they come into contact with a person's skin. Therefore, it is important to handle and dispose of these contaminated sharps properly to prevent any potential harm or transmission of infectious diseases.

The chain of custody refers to the chronological documentation of the handling, transfer, and storage of evidence or samples in a legal proceeding. It ensures that the integrity and authenticity of the samples are maintained, preventing any tampering or contamination. Following the chain of custody is crucial in maintaining the admissibility and reliability of the samples as evidence in court.

The correct answer is "pre-analytical." In laboratory testing, the pre-analytical phase refers to all the steps that occur before the actual analysis of the sample takes place. This includes the test order, test collection, and sample preparation. It is an important phase as any errors or issues during this stage can significantly impact the accuracy and reliability of the test results.

Blood samples need to be transported in sealed plastic bags to ensure that there is no leakage or contamination during transportation. Sealed plastic bags provide a secure and sterile environment for the samples, preventing any potential damage or exposure to external elements. This helps maintain the integrity of the samples and ensures accurate laboratory testing and analysis. Triple-sealed plastic bags, brown paper sacks, or individually boxed options do not offer the same level of protection and may compromise the quality of the samples.

The correct answer is lavender because lavender is the color commonly used for blood collection tubes for a complete blood count (CBC) test. Different color-coded tubes are used for different types of blood tests, and lavender is specifically used for CBC tests. The color coding helps to ensure that the correct tube is used for the specific test, preventing any cross-contamination or inaccurate results.

Hemolysis refers to the rupture or destruction of red blood cells, leading to the release of their contents into the surrounding fluid. When a sample collected for potassium testing undergoes hemolysis, the released potassium from the damaged red blood cells can contaminate the sample, resulting in inaccurate potassium levels. Therefore, hemolysis would cause rejection of a sample collected for potassium testing.

Blood cultures are performed to detect septicemia, which is a serious bloodstream infection caused by bacteria or fungi. By taking a sample of blood and incubating it in a culture medium, any microorganisms present in the bloodstream can multiply and be identified. Detecting septicemia is crucial as it allows for prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics, reducing the risk of complications and potentially saving lives. Anemia, cholesterol, and cancer are unrelated to blood cultures and have different diagnostic methods.

Waived tests are tests that pose insignificant risks to patients if errors occur in the test performance. These tests are considered to be simple and straightforward, and can be performed accurately with minimal training and supervision. They are typically low complexity tests that have been approved by regulatory bodies for use in various healthcare settings, such as point-of-care testing or home testing. These tests are designed to be user-friendly and have a low risk of producing incorrect results, making them suitable for use by non-laboratory personnel.

The endocrine system is responsible for producing and regulating hormones in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers that control various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. This system consists of glands such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands, which release hormones directly into the bloodstream. Therefore, the endocrine system is the primary regulator of hormones in the body.

Medical etiquette refers to the conduct, courtesy, and manners that are customary in the medical profession. It encompasses the professional behaviors and interactions between healthcare professionals, patients, and colleagues. It includes aspects such as respect, empathy, effective communication, maintaining patient confidentiality, and following ethical principles. Therefore, medical etiquette is the appropriate term to describe the conduct, courtesy, and manners expected in the medical profession.

The purpose of the Bleeding time test is to assess platelet plug formation in the capillaries. This test measures the time it takes for bleeding to stop after a small incision is made on the skin. Platelet plug formation is an important step in the clotting process, and this test helps evaluate the adequacy of platelet function. It helps diagnose disorders such as von Willebrand disease and thrombocytopenia, which can affect platelet plug formation and lead to excessive bleeding. Assessing platelet plug formation in the capillaries is therefore the main purpose of the Bleeding time test.

Plasma is the correct answer because it refers to the liquid portion of a blood sample that has been treated with an anticoagulant. It is the yellowish fluid that remains after the blood has been centrifuged to separate the cells and clotting factors. Plasma contains various proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and waste products, and it plays a crucial role in transporting nutrients, hormones, and waste throughout the body.

A red-topped evacuated tube is used for the collection of blood for electrolyte testing. The color of the tube indicates the type of additive present in it, which helps preserve the integrity of the blood sample and prevent clotting. In this case, the red color indicates the presence of a clot activator, which promotes blood clotting and separates the serum from the blood cells. This is important for electrolyte testing as it allows for accurate measurement of the electrolyte levels in the liquid part of the blood.

The correct answer is 2 hours after a meal. "Post-prandial" refers to the period of time after a meal. Therefore, if a blood sample should be collected 2 hours post-prandial, it means that the sample should be collected 2 hours after a meal has been consumed.

In a patient with a clotting disorder, it is important to apply pressure to the puncture site for at least 5 minutes after venipuncture to ensure that bleeding stops. This extended duration of pressure helps to prevent excessive bleeding and allows enough time for the clotting factors to work effectively in patients with clotting disorders. Applying pressure for a shorter duration may result in continued bleeding, which can be problematic for these patients.

Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments that are formed in the bone marrow. They play a crucial role in blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding. Thrombocytes and platelets are synonymous terms used to describe these cell fragments. Therefore, the correct answer is platelet.

The abbreviation VAD is commonly used in hospitals to refer to venous access devices. These devices are used to gain access to a patient's veins for the purpose of administering medication, fluids, or blood products. Venous access devices can include peripheral intravenous catheters, central venous catheters, and peripherally inserted central catheters.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to clothing and equipment worn to protect against hazards in the workplace. Uniforms, although they may be worn for identification or to maintain a professional appearance, do not typically provide protection against specific hazards. Gloves, aprons, and masks, on the other hand, are examples of PPE as they are designed to protect the wearer from various risks such as chemical exposure, physical injuries, or airborne particles.

EMLA is an emulsion of lidocaine and prilocaine, which are both local anesthetics. When applied topically, EMLA can numb the skin and underlying tissues, making it an effective option for anesthetizing a draw site. This can help to minimize pain and discomfort during procedures such as drawing blood or inserting an IV.

If the tourniquet is not released before the needle is withdrawn from the arm during venipuncture, it can lead to bleeding from the site. The tourniquet is used to temporarily stop the blood flow to make it easier to locate and access the vein. If it is not released before removing the needle, the blood flow will not resume properly, resulting in bleeding from the puncture site.

Negligence refers to the failure to perform an action that a reasonable person would do or performing an action that a reasonable person would not do, resulting in harm to another person. It involves a breach of the duty of care owed to another person, where the person fails to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would in similar circumstances. Negligence is a legal concept often used in personal injury cases to determine liability and compensation for damages caused by the negligent party.

A red-topped evacuated tube is used for the collection of blood for cholesterol testing. This is because different color-coded tubes are used for different types of blood tests, and the red top specifically indicates that it contains a clot activator and a gel separator. This allows for the separation of serum from the blood cells, which is necessary for accurate cholesterol testing.

The law protects healthcare workers when it can be established that their actions were reasonable in comparison to their colleagues. This concept is known as "reasonable care." It implies that healthcare professionals are expected to act in a manner that is considered reasonable and appropriate in their specific field of practice. By meeting this standard, healthcare workers can be protected from legal liability if their actions are deemed reasonable when compared to the actions of other professionals in similar situations.

Insufficient mixing of an anticoagulated blood tube can lead to unexpected clotting. When the anticoagulant is not properly mixed with the blood, it may not effectively prevent clotting, resulting in the formation of clots. Proper mixing ensures that the anticoagulant is evenly distributed throughout the sample, preventing clot formation and ensuring accurate test results.

EDTA, an anticoagulant, works by binding calcium. Calcium is an essential factor in the coagulation cascade, which is responsible for blood clot formation. By binding to calcium, EDTA prevents the formation of blood clots by inhibiting the activation of clotting factors. This helps to prevent the formation of clots in the blood vessels and reduces the risk of thrombosis.

Diurnal rhythms refer to variations in the body's functions or fluids that occur every 24 hours. This means that these rhythms follow a daily cycle, with regular patterns of activity and rest repeating on a daily basis. These variations can include changes in hormone levels, body temperature, and sleep-wake cycles, among others.

Nosocomial infections are infections that are acquired in a hospital or healthcare setting. The most common type of nosocomial infection is urinary tract infection (UTI). This is because patients often have catheters inserted into their urinary tract, which can introduce bacteria and lead to infection. Additionally, the use of antibiotics in hospitals can increase the risk of developing a UTI. Therefore, the correct answer is urinary tract.

Knowing when to collect peak and trough levels is important when drawing therapeutic drugs. This is because peak levels indicate the highest concentration of the drug in the bloodstream, which can help determine if the drug is reaching therapeutic levels and if the dosage is appropriate. On the other hand, trough levels indicate the lowest concentration of the drug in the bloodstream, which can help determine if the drug is being cleared from the body too quickly or if the dosage needs adjustment. Monitoring peak and trough levels is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of therapeutic drug treatment.

Bleeding time is often used to assess hemostasis before surgery. This test measures the time it takes for bleeding to stop after a standardized skin incision is made. It evaluates the primary hemostasis process, specifically platelet function and blood vessel constriction. A prolonged bleeding time may indicate a potential bleeding disorder or platelet dysfunction, which could increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. Therefore, this test helps surgeons make informed decisions about the patient's suitability for surgery and the need for any additional interventions to ensure proper hemostasis.

Forcing Venipuncture on a patient who has refused it would be considered battery. Battery refers to the intentional and unauthorized physical contact with another person without their consent, which causes harm or offensive contact. In this scenario, the act of forcibly performing a venipuncture on a patient who has explicitly refused it constitutes an unauthorized physical contact that goes against the patient's wishes, making it a clear case of battery.

If a phlebotomist attempts to draw blood without sufficient training and performs the procedure incorrectly, causing harm to the patient, they could be accused of incompetence. Incompetence refers to a lack of ability, knowledge, or skill in performing a specific task or job. In this case, the phlebotomist's insufficient training and incorrect procedure demonstrate their incompetence in carrying out their duties effectively and safely.

Anticoagulants are medications that prevent the formation of blood clots. Fibrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation of blood clots. When there is an injury or damage to blood vessels, platelets adhere to the site and release clotting factors, including Factor VII, which initiates a cascade of reactions leading to the formation of fibrin. Fibrin then forms a mesh-like structure that stabilizes the clot. By preventing the formation of fibrin, anticoagulants inhibit the clotting process and reduce the risk of unwanted blood clots.

Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments that play a crucial role in the process of hemostasis, which is the body's way of stopping bleeding. When a blood vessel is damaged, platelets rush to the site and form a plug to seal the wound, preventing further blood loss. They also release chemicals that help in the formation of blood clots, which further aid in stopping bleeding. Therefore, platelets participate in hemostasis, ensuring the maintenance of normal blood circulation.

An exposure incident refers to a situation where an employee comes into contact with potentially infectious materials through specific routes such as the eyes, mouth, mucous membranes, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood. This term is used to describe a specific event or occurrence rather than a general occupational hazard or unfortunate incident.