Take Home Quiz Chapter 7

Cotton ball fibers can stick to the site, which can be problematic when trying to cover and apply pressure to the site following venipuncture. This can cause discomfort or even interfere with the healing process. Gauze pads, on the other hand, are less likely to stick to the site, making them a better choice for covering and holding pressure.

The correct answer is 70% isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used as an antiseptic to clean the site before routine venipuncture. It helps to kill bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. Sodium hypochlorite is a bleach solution and is not typically used for this purpose. Methanol is toxic and should not be used on the skin. Povidone-iodine is another antiseptic option, but isopropyl alcohol is more commonly used.

The larger the gauge number, the smaller the bore or lumen of the needle. Therefore, the smallest gauge number in the given options is 18, indicating that it has the largest bore or lumen.

The gauge of a needle refers to its diameter. Gauge is a measurement unit used for needles, especially in medical and sewing contexts, to indicate the thickness or size of the needle. The larger the gauge number, the smaller the diameter of the needle, and vice versa. Therefore, the correct answer is "Diameter."

The slanted tip of a needle is called the bevel. The bevel is the angled point at the end of the needle that allows for easier insertion into the skin or other materials. It helps to reduce the amount of tissue damage and pain during needle insertion. The other options, hub, lumen, and shaft, do not refer to the slanted tip of the needle.

The criterion used to decide which needle gauge to use for venipuncture is the size and condition of the vein. The size of the vein determines the appropriate gauge of the needle to ensure successful puncture and blood collection. A larger vein may require a larger gauge needle, while a smaller vein may require a smaller gauge needle. Additionally, the condition of the vein, such as its fragility or visibility, may also influence the choice of needle gauge to minimize discomfort and potential complications during venipuncture.

During venipuncture, the tourniquet is used to apply pressure to the veins, making them easier to locate and puncture. However, leaving the tourniquet on for too long can cause venous congestion and lead to inaccurate test results. It is recommended to remove the tourniquet within 1 minute to minimize the risk of complications and ensure accurate blood collection.

Evacuated tubes fill automatically as soon as the stopper is pierced because of premeasured vacuum in each tube. Evacuated tubes are designed to have a vacuum inside them, which creates negative pressure. When the stopper is pierced and the needle is inserted into the vein, the vacuum inside the tube causes the blood to be drawn into the tube. This vacuum helps to ensure that the correct amount of blood is collected and prevents any air from entering the tube.

An evacuated tube that can be used to collect a serum specimen is the SST (Serum Separator Tube). This tube contains a gel that separates the serum from the other components of the blood when it is centrifuged. The gel acts as a barrier, allowing for easy separation and retrieval of the serum for further analysis or testing.

Lavender-stopper tubes are commonly used to collect blood samples for hematology tests. These tests involve analyzing the components of blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, to evaluate a person's overall health and diagnose various conditions. The lavender-stopper tubes contain an additive called EDTA, which helps preserve the blood sample by preventing it from clotting. This allows for accurate analysis of the blood components in hematology tests.

The measurement of copper, a trace element, requires blood collection in a tube with a royal-blue top. This is because royal-blue top tubes are typically used for trace element analysis, including copper. The tube contains an additive that helps preserve the stability of the trace elements during storage and transportation. The royal-blue top tube ensures accurate and reliable measurement of copper levels in the blood sample.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are commonly used in healthcare settings because alcohol is effective in killing a wide range of germs, including bacteria and viruses. It is also fast-acting and evaporates quickly, leaving no residue on the hands. Phenol-based sanitizers are less commonly used in healthcare due to potential toxicity concerns. Sodium hypochlorite is a disinfectant commonly used for surfaces, but not typically used as a hand sanitizer. Zephiran chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound that is sometimes used as a disinfectant, but not commonly found in hand sanitizers.

The best choice of equipment for drawing difficult veins is a butterfly and ETS holder. This combination allows for better control and precision when accessing difficult veins. The butterfly needle is smaller and has a flexible tubing, making it easier to maneuver and reduce discomfort for the patient. The ETS holder provides stability and control during the procedure. The lancet and microtainer are used for capillary blood collection, not for difficult veins. The needle and 10-cc syringe are not ideal for difficult veins as they lack the flexibility and precision of the butterfly and ETS holder.

Tourniquets are medical devices used to stop bleeding by applying pressure to a limb. It is crucial to use tourniquets only once and then discard them because reusing them can lead to contamination and increase the risk of infection. Reusing tourniquets can also compromise their effectiveness in stopping bleeding. Therefore, it is best practice to use tourniquets once and then dispose of them appropriately.

A pink-top tube containing EDTA is primarily used for blood bank tests because EDTA is an anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting. Blood bank tests require the blood to remain in a liquid state for accurate testing and analysis. EDTA helps in preserving the integrity of the blood sample by preventing clot formation. This allows for the testing of blood components such as blood typing, cross-matching, and compatibility testing, which are essential in blood transfusions and blood donations.

The purpose of a tourniquet in the venipuncture procedure is to enlarge veins so they are easier to find and enter. By applying pressure to the area above the site of venipuncture, the tourniquet temporarily restricts blood flow, causing the veins to become more prominent and easier to locate. This helps the healthcare professional to accurately insert the needle into the vein for blood collection or other procedures.

Household bleach is a disinfectant because it contains sodium hypochlorite, which is effective in killing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When diluted with water, bleach can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and bathroom fixtures. It is commonly used in households, hospitals, and other settings to maintain cleanliness and prevent the spread of infections.

The correct answer is "2 3". This needle gauge is primarily used for infant or child veins, as well as difficult or hard veins of adults. The smaller gauge size (23) allows for easier insertion into smaller veins, while the larger gauge size (22) provides increased flow rate for difficult or hard veins. Therefore, using a combination of gauge sizes 2 and 3 would be the most suitable for these specific situations.

The tube stopper color Lavender indicates that the tube contains EDTA. EDTA is a common anticoagulant used in blood collection tubes to prevent blood from clotting. Lavender tubes are typically used for complete blood count (CBC) tests, as EDTA helps preserve the integrity of blood cells and prevents them from clumping together.

Improper handling or storage of evacuated tubes can affect additive integrity, the shape of the tube, and the vacuum of the tube. Additive integrity refers to the preservation of the correct concentration and functionality of additives within the tube, which can be compromised if the tube is mishandled or stored incorrectly. The shape of the tube can also be altered if it is not handled carefully, potentially affecting the accuracy of test results. Finally, the vacuum of the tube can be compromised if it is not stored properly, leading to inaccurate test results. Therefore, all of the above options are correct.

After a blood spill, it is necessary to apply a disinfectant and allow it to have sufficient contact time for effective cleanup. The correct answer is 10 minutes, indicating that the disinfectant needs to remain in contact with the spilled blood for at least this duration to ensure proper disinfection.

Light blue stopper color is used to identify a tube used for coagulation testing. Coagulation testing involves the study of blood clotting, and the light blue stopper indicates that the tube contains sodium citrate as an anticoagulant. Sodium citrate prevents blood from clotting by binding to calcium, which is necessary for the clotting process. Therefore, the light blue tube is specifically designed for coagulation testing.

The correct answer is EDTA. This is indicated by the lavender color coding on the label, which signifies that the tube contains an anticoagulant. Among the options given, EDTA is commonly used as an anticoagulant in blood collection tubes. Heparin is usually represented by a green or light green top, while no additive tubes are usually red or plain. Sodium citrate tubes are typically light blue in color. Therefore, based on the color coding, the tube with a royal-blue top and lavender color coding contains EDTA.

The blood culture tube is filled first when multiple tubes are filled from a syringe because it is used to collect a sample for blood culture testing, which is a diagnostic test for identifying bacteria or fungi in the blood. This test is time-sensitive and requires immediate processing to ensure accurate results. Therefore, the blood culture tube takes precedence over the other tubes in order to prioritize the detection of potential infections in the bloodstream.

Prothrombin time is a test that measures how long it takes for blood to clot. It is used to assess the functioning of the clotting factors in the blood. The fact that the test is collected in a tube with a light-blue top suggests that it requires the addition of a specific anticoagulant, such as sodium citrate, which is commonly used for coagulation tests. This anticoagulant prevents the blood from clotting during the collection process, allowing accurate measurement of the prothrombin time.

The HICPAC (Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee) prefers the use of an EPA-registered sodium hypochlorite product for disinfecting surfaces and instruments. Sodium hypochlorite is a common and effective disinfectant that is widely used in healthcare settings. It has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and is effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. EPA registration ensures that the product has been tested and proven to be effective against specific microorganisms. This makes it a reliable choice for disinfection in healthcare facilities.

CLSI standards advise against using adhesive bandages on infants and children under 2 years old. This is because their delicate skin is more prone to irritation and damage from the adhesive. Using adhesive bandages on young children can cause skin reactions, such as redness, itching, or even blisters. Therefore, it is recommended to use alternative methods, such as non-adhesive dressings or gauze, to protect and cover wounds in this age group.

OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, mandates the use of gloves during phlebotomy procedures. OSHA is responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees, and their regulations require the use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to minimize the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other hazards in the workplace.

Multisample needles are commonly available in the gauge range of 20-22. This means that the inner diameter of the needle is larger than a 22-gauge needle but smaller than a 20-gauge needle. Choosing a multisample needle in this gauge range allows for efficient and accurate collection of blood samples, as it provides a balance between the flow rate and patient comfort. It is a commonly used size for various medical procedures that require multiple blood samples to be drawn.

The headspace in an evacuated tube refers to the consistent amount of airspace that is intentionally left when the tube is filled properly. This headspace is important because it allows for expansion of the blood when the tube is subjected to centrifugation or other mechanical stress. It also helps to prevent hemolysis or rupture of the tube due to excessive pressure build-up. Therefore, the correct answer is that the headspace is a consistent amount of airspace left when a tube is filled properly.

Phlebotomists should wear a barrier hand cream or lotion if they have dermatitis. This is because dermatitis is a condition that causes inflammation and irritation of the skin, and wearing a barrier cream or lotion can help protect the skin from further damage and irritation. It acts as a protective barrier between the skin and potential irritants, preventing them from coming into direct contact with the affected area. This can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing of the skin.

EDTA is the correct answer because it is the only additive that can be found in four separate tubes with different stopper colors. The other additives mentioned, such as Heparin, Potassium oxalate, and Sodium citrate, are typically found in tubes with specific stopper colors designated for their use. EDTA, on the other hand, can be found in tubes with different stopper colors depending on the specific test or analysis being performed.

The correct answer is "All of the above" because the question asks for the types of ETS tube additives, and all three options listed (anticoagulants, clot activators, and separator gels) are indeed types of additives commonly used in ETS tubes. Anticoagulants are used to prevent blood from clotting, clot activators are used to promote blood clotting, and separator gels are used to separate the serum or plasma from the blood cells. Therefore, all three options are correct.

The blood-to-additive ratio is most critical for a specimen collected in a light-blue top tube. This is because light-blue top tubes are used for coagulation tests, which require a specific ratio of blood to anticoagulant additive (usually sodium citrate) to ensure accurate results. If the ratio is not correct, it can lead to improper clotting or clotting inhibition, affecting the reliability of the test results.

A phlebotomy needle that does not have a safety feature must be used with a holder that has a safety feature. This is because the safety feature on the holder helps to prevent accidental needlestick injuries by covering the needle after use. Without a safety feature on the needle itself, the holder becomes essential in ensuring safe handling and disposal of the needle. Therefore, it is necessary to use a holder with a safety feature when using a phlebotomy needle without its own safety feature.

The red top tube will yield a serum sample because it contains no anticoagulant or additives. The red top tube is used for collecting blood samples for serum testing, as it allows the blood to clot and separate from the serum. This allows for various biochemical and immunological tests to be performed on the serum.

A transiliumination device is used to locate veins for venipuncture. This device helps healthcare professionals to identify the location and depth of veins, making it easier to draw blood or insert an IV. It uses a light source to illuminate the veins, making them more visible and accessible. This improves the accuracy and efficiency of the venipuncture procedure, reducing the chances of complications such as multiple needle sticks or damage to surrounding tissues. Therefore, the correct answer is "Locate veins for venipuncture."

The correct answer is "All of the above" because needle safety features can include various methods to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients. Covering or shielding the needle can prevent accidental needlestick injuries. Retracting the needle after use can further reduce the risk of needlestick injuries by retracting the needle into a protective sheath or housing. Using a device to blunt the needle can also make it safer to handle and dispose of. Therefore, all of these methods are commonly used in needle safety features.

The part of a syringe that shows measurements in cc or ml is called the barrel. This is where the medication or fluid is held and measured before it is administered. The barrel is typically transparent and has markings to indicate the volume of the substance being drawn or injected. The adapter is a separate part that connects the syringe to the needle, the hub is the part where the needle attaches to the syringe, and the plunger is used to push or pull the fluid in and out of the barrel.

An EPA-approved bleach product is the preferred solution to use to clean up blood spills. This is because bleach is effective at killing pathogens, including bloodborne pathogens, and is commonly used in healthcare settings for disinfection purposes. The EPA approval ensures that the bleach product meets specific safety and efficacy standards. Sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in bleach, is known for its strong disinfecting properties and ability to break down organic matter. Therefore, using an EPA-approved bleach product is the most appropriate and effective solution for cleaning up blood spills.

The color of a sharps container is not a necessary characteristic for its functionality. The most important features of a sharps container are that it should be leakproof, have a lid that locks to prevent accidental exposure, and be puncture-resistant to ensure the safe disposal of sharp objects. The color of the container is not directly related to its effectiveness in containing and disposing of sharps, making it unnecessary and therefore can be deleted from the list of required characteristics.

An antiglycolytic agent is used to preserve glucose. Glucose is an essential energy source for cells, especially in situations where there is a delay between the collection of a blood sample and its analysis. Without an antiglycolytic agent, glycolysis (the breakdown of glucose) can occur in the blood sample, leading to a decrease in glucose levels. By inhibiting glycolysis, antiglycolytic agents help maintain accurate glucose measurements in blood samples.

The light-blue top tube is needed first to collect the CBC and PTT. The green top tube is needed next to collect the STAT potassium. Finally, the lavender top tube is needed last for the multitube draw.

The reason the ETS is the preferred blood collection system is because it avoids exposure of the blood to contaminants. This means that the risk of contamination during the collection process is minimized, ensuring the integrity and safety of the collected blood sample.

Red glass is the correct answer because it does not contain any additives. Unlike the other options, red glass does not have any additional substances or chemicals added to it during the manufacturing process. This makes it the only tube that is completely free of additives.

Heparin prevents blood from clotting by inhibiting thrombin. Thrombin is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the clotting process. By inhibiting thrombin, heparin prevents the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, which is necessary for the formation of blood clots. Therefore, heparin effectively prevents blood clotting.

The phlebotomist would add a royal blue tube to the ones already being collected because royal blue tubes are used for trace element analysis, including testing for metal poisoning.

EDTA is the correct answer because it is commonly found in royal blue-topped collection tubes. These tubes are used for collecting blood samples for trace element analysis, such as lead or zinc levels. EDTA acts as an anticoagulant, preventing blood from clotting and preserving the integrity of the sample for accurate analysis. It is particularly useful for preserving trace elements, making it suitable for tests requiring royal blue-topped tubes.

When performing a venipuncture, it is important to use a tourniquet to apply pressure to the patient's arm, which helps to distend the veins and make them easier to locate. However, if a blood pressure cuff is used instead of a tourniquet, the pressure applied should be below the patient's diastolic pressure. This is because the diastolic pressure represents the minimum pressure in the arteries during the cardiac cycle, and applying pressure above this level could potentially restrict blood flow and cause discomfort or harm to the patient. Therefore, the pressure used should be below the patient's diastolic pressure to ensure a safe and successful venipuncture procedure.

The rubber sleeve on the tube end of a multiple-sample needle is designed to prevent leakage of blood during tube changes. This sleeve acts as a barrier, ensuring that blood does not escape from the needle when tubes are being switched. This helps maintain a clean and safe environment, preventing potential contamination and minimizing the risk of infection.