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CRT (IJCAHPO) practice questions

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Question 1TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A technologist is preparing to draw a patient's blood. Which action best demonstrates proper patient identification before the procedure?

  1. Relying on the name called out by the receptionist
  2. Checking the room number listed on the requisition against the door
  3. Confirming the patient's identity by reading the wristband to the patient
  4. Asking the patient to state their full name and date of birth and comparing it to the requisition Correct answer.

Explanation

Positive patient identification requires actively matching two identifiers, typically name and date of birth, against the requisition while the patient confirms them. Passive methods such as reading to the patient or relying on room or other staff do not verify identity.

Question 2TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which needle gauge is the largest in diameter?

  1. 23 gauge
  2. 16 gauge Correct answer.
  3. 21 gauge
  4. 18 gauge

Explanation

Needle gauge is inversely related to diameter: a smaller gauge number indicates a larger bore. Therefore 16 gauge has the largest diameter among the listed sizes.

Question 3TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which color-coded tube top typically indicates a tube containing sodium citrate for coagulation testing?

  1. Light blue Correct answer.
  2. Green
  3. Gray
  4. Lavender

Explanation

Light blue tubes contain sodium citrate, which binds calcium and preserves clotting factors for coagulation studies. The additive-to-blood ratio is critical, so these tubes must be filled to the indicated volume.

Question 4TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

The recommended order of draw begins with which type of tube?

  1. Sodium citrate tube
  2. Serum separator tube
  3. Blood culture bottles Correct answer.
  4. EDTA tube

Explanation

Blood culture bottles are drawn first to minimize contamination risk from needle or skin flora. Sterile collection precedes all additive tubes in the standard order of draw.

Question 5TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A patient begins to sweat, reports dizziness, and looks pale during a blood draw. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Apply a warm compress to the arm and resume
  2. Have the patient stand up and walk to get water
  3. Stop the draw, remove the needle, and help the patient lie down safely Correct answer.
  4. Continue the draw quickly to finish before the patient faints

Explanation

These signs suggest a vasovagal reaction or syncope. The priority is to stop the procedure, remove the needle, and position the patient safely (supine) to prevent injury from a fall.

Question 6TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which practice is required when handling a specimen after collection to reduce exposure risk?

  1. Remove the label to avoid confusion
  2. Carry the open tube by hand to the lab
  3. Transport it in a leak-resistant secondary container Correct answer.
  4. Place the tube in a pocket until the end of rounds

Explanation

Specimens should be transported in leak-resistant secondary containers to contain spills and reduce exposure. Open handling and unlabeled specimens increase contamination and misidentification risk.

Question 7TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A tourniquet has been applied to a patient's arm for an extended period. Which laboratory result is most likely to be affected by prolonged tourniquet time?

  1. Sodium
  2. Potassium Correct answer.
  3. Bicarbonate
  4. Chloride

Explanation

Prolonged tourniquet application causes hemoconcentration and tissue metabolism, which can falsely elevate potassium. Tourniquet time should generally be kept under one minute.

Question 8TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which additive is present in a lavender-top tube?

  1. Sodium fluoride
  2. EDTA Correct answer.
  3. Sodium citrate
  4. Heparin

Explanation

Lavender-top tubes contain EDTA, a chelating agent that binds calcium to prevent clotting, making them suitable for hematology tests such as CBC.

Question 9TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist must collect blood from a patient with a known latex allergy. Which action is most appropriate?

  1. Use latex-free gloves and supplies Correct answer.
  2. Ask the patient to hold their breath during the draw
  3. Double-layer standard latex gloves
  4. Proceed with latex gloves but wash hands after

Explanation

For a latex-allergic patient, all latex-containing materials should be avoided, including gloves, tourniquets, and adhesive bandages. Latex-free alternatives prevent allergic reactions.

Question 10TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which site is generally preferred for routine venipuncture in an adult?

  1. External jugular vein
  2. Dorsal hand veins
  3. Median cubital vein Correct answer.
  4. Femoral vein

Explanation

The median cubital vein is preferred because it is large, well anchored, and accessible with lower risk of injury to adjacent structures. Alternative sites are chosen when the antecubital area is unsuitable.

Question 11TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A patient's blood culture and a chemistry panel are ordered. How should the collection be sequenced?

  1. Draw the blood culture first, then the chemistry tube Correct answer.
  2. Draw the chemistry tube first, then the culture
  3. Draw the chemistry tube only after the culture is discarded
  4. Draw both simultaneously from one needle

Explanation

Blood cultures are collected first to reduce contamination from skin flora and needle contact. The standard order of draw places culture bottles before all other tubes.

Question 12TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Why is it important to allow an alcohol prep site to dry completely before puncture?

  1. Residual alcohol can cause hemolysis and a stinging sensation Correct answer.
  2. It increases blood flow to the site
  3. It prevents the needle from entering the vein
  4. It ensures the tourniquet stays in place

Explanation

Residual alcohol can hemolyze red cells and cause discomfort, and it may also dilute the specimen. Allowing the site to air-dry reduces these effects.

Question 13TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A specimen collected in a serum separator tube should be handled how after collection?

  1. Shaken vigorously to mix the additive
  2. Immediately placed on ice regardless of test
  3. Clotted and centrifuged according to the required protocol Correct answer.
  4. Frozen within one minute of collection

Explanation

Serum separator tubes require clot formation before centrifugation to separate serum from cells. The specimen must be processed within the timeframe specified for the test.

Question 14TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which condition is a contraindication to venipuncture at a particular site?

  1. A patient who has fasted
  2. Active infection or inflammation at the site Correct answer.
  3. A visible, healthy vein
  4. A patient who is right-handed

Explanation

Areas with infection, inflammation, or injury should be avoided because puncture can spread infection or worsen tissue damage. An alternative site should be selected.

Question 15TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist accidentally sticks themselves with a contaminated needle. What is the first action?

  1. Wash the exposed area with soap and water and report the exposure promptly Correct answer.
  2. Squeeze the wound to force blood out and continue working
  3. Apply a tight tourniquet above the injury
  4. Wait to see if symptoms develop before reporting

Explanation

Immediate washing of the exposed site and prompt reporting initiate post-exposure evaluation and any needed prophylaxis. Squeezing, delaying, or applying a tourniquet is not recommended.

Question 16TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which factor most directly influences the choice of needle length for a venipuncture?

  1. Depth of the vein beneath the skin Correct answer.
  2. Color of the tube top
  3. Room temperature
  4. Patient's age in years

Explanation

Needle length must be sufficient to reach the vein at the chosen depth while allowing control of the hub. Vein depth, not tube color or room temperature, guides length selection.

Question 17TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A patient has an intravenous line in the arm. Where should the phlebotomist avoid drawing blood?

  1. The arm with the IV line, unless specifically permitted by protocol Correct answer.
  2. The antecubital area of either arm
  3. The opposite arm entirely
  4. Any site below the IV site only

Explanation

Drawing above or from an arm with an active IV can cause specimen contamination or hemolysis. Blood should generally be drawn from the arm without the IV unless protocol specifies otherwise.

Question 18TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which specimen is most likely to be rejected by the laboratory?

  1. A tube filled to the indicated volume
  2. A tube with insufficient blood volume for its additive Correct answer.
  3. A tube transported in a secondary container
  4. A tube labeled with two patient identifiers

Explanation

Underfilled additive tubes, especially citrate tubes, alter the blood-to-additive ratio and can produce inaccurate results, so they are often rejected. Proper fill volume, labeling, and transport prevent rejection.

Question 19TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which action best reduces the risk of hemolysis during venipuncture?

  1. Shaking the tube after collection
  2. Pulling back forcefully on the syringe plunger
  3. Using a small-gauge needle with rapid aspiration
  4. Drawing blood smoothly through a properly sized needle Correct answer.

Explanation

Hemolysis is reduced by using appropriate needle size, avoiding excessive vacuum or force, and handling blood gently. Forceful aspiration and shaking damage red cells.

Question 20TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

When performing a capillary puncture on an infant's heel, which area should be used?

  1. The medial or lateral plantar surface of the heel Correct answer.
  2. The center of the heel pad
  3. The tips of the toes
  4. The posterior curvature of the heel

Explanation

Heel puncture should target the medial or lateral plantar surface to avoid the calcaneus and reduce risk of bone injury. The central heel pad and posterior heel are avoided.

Question 21TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which statement best describes the purpose of the CLSI order of draw?

  1. It determines the patient's test priority
  2. It specifies the needle gauge to use
  3. It sets the amount of blood to be drawn
  4. It minimizes additive cross-contamination between tubes Correct answer.

Explanation

The order of draw is designed to prevent additives from one tube from contaminating subsequent tubes and affecting results. It does not set blood volume, gauge, or test priority.

Question 22TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A patient reports taking warfarin. Which collection consideration is most relevant?

  1. A larger needle gauge is required
  2. The patient should skip all testing
  3. The tourniquet should remain on for several minutes
  4. Coagulation testing may require a properly filled citrate tube Correct answer.

Explanation

Warfarin affects coagulation, and citrate tubes must be filled correctly to maintain the additive-to-blood ratio for accurate results. The tourniquet should never be left on for prolonged periods.

Question 23TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which practice helps prevent needlestick injuries during disposal?

  1. Bending the needle to fit the container
  2. Activating the safety device and placing the needle directly into a sharps container Correct answer.
  3. Recapping the needle with one hand before disposal
  4. Leaving the needle on the tray until the end of the shift

Explanation

Immediately activating the safety device and disposing of the needle in a puncture-resistant sharps container reduces needlestick risk. Recapping and bending needles are unsafe practices.

Question 24TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which patient factor is most likely to cause difficulty locating a suitable vein?

  1. Warm room temperature
  2. Short fasting period
  3. Dehydration Correct answer.
  4. Recent meal consumption

Explanation

Dehydration reduces venous volume and makes veins less prominent, complicating venipuncture. Hydration status and warmth generally improve vein visibility.

Question 25TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

What is the primary reason for labeling a specimen at the patient's side immediately after collection?

  1. To prevent misidentification of the specimen Correct answer.
  2. To speed up centrifugation
  3. To keep the tube warm
  4. To avoid using a secondary container

Explanation

Immediate bedside labeling links the specimen to the patient at the time of collection, greatly reducing mislabeling errors. Labeling later or elsewhere increases the risk of specimen mix-ups.

Question 26TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist needs to collect a serum specimen from an adult with small, fragile veins. Which needle gauge is most appropriate for this situation?

  1. 18 gauge
  2. 21 gauge
  3. 23 gauge Correct answer.
  4. 16 gauge

Explanation

Smaller-gauge needles (higher gauge number) cause less trauma to fragile veins and are appropriate when veins are small, though they may increase hemolysis risk if too small for the draw. A 23-gauge needle is the smallest commonly used for routine venipuncture and suits fragile veins. Larger gauges are reserved for situations requiring rapid flow or large volumes.

Question 27TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which tube color top indicates the presence of sodium citrate as an additive?

  1. Light blue Correct answer.
  2. Gray
  3. Green
  4. Royal blue

Explanation

Light blue-top tubes contain sodium citrate, which binds calcium and is used for coagulation testing. The tube must be filled to the indicated line to maintain the correct blood-to-additive ratio. Other colors contain different additives for different tests.

Question 28TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

During a venipuncture, the phlebotomist notices the blood flow stops and the vein collapses after the tube is partially filled. What is the most likely cause?

  1. The needle has passed through the vein wall Correct answer.
  2. The tourniquet was released too early
  3. The tube was pushed too far onto the needle
  4. The patient has a clotting disorder

Explanation

When a needle goes through both walls of a vein (a 'through-and-through'), blood may flow initially and then stop as the vein collapses or a hematoma forms. Repositioning or redrawing at another site is usually required. Tourniquet timing and tube position do not typically cause this pattern.

Question 29TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which action should a phlebotomist take if a patient begins to faint during a blood draw?

  1. Stop the draw and lower the patient's head Correct answer.
  2. Continue the draw quickly to finish
  3. Have the patient stand up to restore circulation
  4. Apply a cold compress to the patient's forehead

Explanation

If a patient shows signs of syncope, the draw should be discontinued and the patient positioned to promote cerebral blood flow, such as lowering the head or laying the patient flat. Continuing the draw risks injury from a fall. Standing the patient up would worsen the situation.

Question 30TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which specimen type is most commonly used for point-of-care glucose testing in a clinic setting?

  1. Venous serum
  2. Urine
  3. Arterial blood
  4. Capillary blood Correct answer.

Explanation

Capillary blood from a fingerstick is the standard specimen for point-of-care glucose meters because it is easily obtained and reflects current glucose levels. Arterial and venous samples are used for other purposes. Urine is not used for glucose monitoring in this way.

Question 31TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist is preparing to draw blood from a patient with a history of mastectomy on the right side. Which action is most appropriate?

  1. Draw from the arm on the unaffected side Correct answer.
  2. Draw from the arm on the mastectomy side
  3. Draw from the antecubital area on either arm
  4. Draw from the foot

Explanation

Lymph nodes may have been removed on the side of a mastectomy, increasing the risk of lymphedema and infection; venipuncture on that side should be avoided. The unaffected arm is preferred. Drawing from the foot is generally avoided unless no other option exists.

Question 32TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which factor most affects the stability of a blood specimen during transport?

  1. Needle gauge
  2. Container color
  3. Tourniquet time
  4. Temperature Correct answer.

Explanation

Temperature is a primary determinant of specimen stability; some analytes degrade rapidly at room temperature while others are light- or heat-sensitive. Proper transport conditions preserve analyte integrity. Container color, needle gauge, and tourniquet time affect collection but not primarily transport stability.

Question 33TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist is asked to collect a specimen for a test that requires the blood to be chilled immediately after collection. Which action best meets this requirement?

  1. Place the tube in an ice-water slurry right after collection Correct answer.
  2. Refrigerate the tube after it has clotted at room temperature
  3. Leave the tube at room temperature and transport it later
  4. Warm the tube to body temperature before transport

Explanation

Some analytes, such as certain hormones and blood gases, require immediate chilling to slow metabolic degradation. An ice-water slurry rapidly lowers specimen temperature. Delaying chilling or warming the specimen would alter results.

Question 34TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which personal protective equipment is required when performing a venipuncture?

  1. Lead apron
  2. Gloves Correct answer.
  3. Gown and shoe covers
  4. Face shield only

Explanation

Gloves are the minimum required PPE for venipuncture and are essential for standard precautions. Additional PPE may be needed based on exposure risk, but gloves are always required. Gowns, shoe covers, and face shields are not routine for venipuncture.

Question 35TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A patient's arm shows a large hematoma after a previous draw. What is the most appropriate action for the current draw?

  1. Apply the tourniquet directly over the hematoma
  2. Draw through the hematoma
  3. Massage the hematoma before drawing
  4. Select a site away from the hematoma Correct answer.

Explanation

Drawing through or near a hematoma risks contamination, pain, and poor specimen quality. A different site should be selected. Massaging or placing a tourniquet over the hematoma would not resolve the issue and could worsen it.

Question 36TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which practice is recommended to verify patient identity before a blood draw?

  1. Ask the patient to state their full name and date of birth Correct answer.
  2. Check the name on the requisition only
  3. Ask a family member to confirm the patient's identity
  4. Ask the patient to confirm their room number

Explanation

Patient identification should use at least two identifiers, such as full name and date of birth, confirmed by the patient when possible. Relying only on the requisition or a room number is insufficient. Family confirmation is not a substitute for direct verification.

Question 37TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist is collecting blood from a patient with an IV line in the antecubital area. What is the recommended approach?

  1. Draw from the arm with the IV line
  2. Draw from the opposite arm or below the IV site Correct answer.
  3. Draw from the same arm above the IV site
  4. Draw from the IV line itself

Explanation

Blood should not be drawn from an arm with an active IV line because the specimen may be diluted or contaminated with infusate. The opposite arm is preferred; if not possible, drawing below the IV site may be considered. Drawing from the line itself is not appropriate for routine specimens.

Question 38TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which observation would most likely lead a phlebotomist to reject a specimen?

  1. The tube contains the appropriate additive
  2. The tube label includes the collection time
  3. The tube is underfilled relative to the required volume Correct answer.
  4. The tube was collected in the correct order

Explanation

Underfilled tubes, particularly those with additives requiring a specific blood-to-additive ratio, are a common reason for rejection. Correct labeling, order of draw, and additive selection support specimen acceptability.

Question 39TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which statement best describes the role of the tourniquet during venipuncture?

  1. It slows blood flow to improve specimen quality
  2. It prevents hemolysis during the draw
  3. It sterilizes the puncture site
  4. It distends the vein to make it easier to locate Correct answer.

Explanation

The tourniquet temporarily restricts venous return, causing the vein to fill and become more visible and palpable. It should be released within about one minute to avoid hemoconcentration. It does not sterilize the site or improve specimen quality.

Question 40TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A patient is anxious about the blood draw and reports feeling dizzy. Which action is most appropriate before beginning the procedure?

  1. Proceed quickly with the draw while standing
  2. Have the patient lie down before the draw Correct answer.
  3. Delay the draw indefinitely
  4. Ask the patient to hold their breath

Explanation

For patients with a history of dizziness or syncope, having them lie down reduces the risk of injury from fainting. Proceeding while standing increases fall risk. Holding the breath is not a standard intervention for anxiety.

Question 41TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which factor is most likely to cause hemoconcentration in a blood specimen?

  1. Drawing the specimen into a serum tube
  2. Labeling the tube before collection
  3. Using a 21-gauge needle
  4. Prolonged tourniquet application Correct answer.

Explanation

Leaving the tourniquet on for an extended period causes fluid to move out of the vessel, concentrating cells and large molecules in the blood. This can elevate results such as potassium and protein. Needle gauge and tube type do not cause hemoconcentration.

Question 42TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which action is appropriate when a phlebotomist cannot obtain blood after two attempts at one site?

  1. Apply the tourniquet more tightly and try again
  2. Stop and request assistance from another phlebotomist Correct answer.
  3. Continue attempting at the same site
  4. Use a larger needle at the same site

Explanation

Repeated unsuccessful attempts increase patient discomfort and the risk of complications. After a limited number of attempts, seeking assistance from a more experienced colleague is appropriate. Continuing at the same site or increasing needle size is not recommended.

Question 43TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which specimen is most appropriate for a newborn screening test collected by heel stick?

  1. Capillary blood on a filter paper card Correct answer.
  2. Venous blood in a citrate tube
  3. Arterial blood in a heparinized syringe
  4. Urine collected in a sterile cup

Explanation

Newborn screening uses capillary blood from a heel stick applied to a special filter paper card. The card is then dried and transported to the laboratory. Venous, arterial, and urine specimens are not used for this test.

Question 44TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Why should a phlebotomist avoid drawing blood from an arm with a dialysis fistula?

  1. The arm is always infected
  2. The fistula could be damaged or thrombosed Correct answer.
  3. The specimen would be too dilute
  4. The patient would feel no pain

Explanation

A dialysis fistula is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein and is critical for dialysis access. Puncturing it can cause thrombosis, infection, or bleeding. Blood should be drawn from the opposite arm.

Question 45TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which action best prevents contamination of a blood culture specimen?

  1. Collect the specimen from the antecubital area without cleansing
  2. Use a tourniquet for an extended period
  3. Cleanse the site and allow the antiseptic to dry before puncture Correct answer.
  4. Collect the specimen after the chemistry tubes

Explanation

Proper antisepsis with adequate drying time reduces skin flora contamination, which is a leading cause of false-positive blood cultures. Collection order and tourniquet time do not substitute for site preparation. Cleansing is always required.

Question 46TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist is collecting blood from a patient with a known bleeding disorder. Which action is most important?

  1. Use a smaller needle to reduce trauma
  2. Collect the specimen without a tourniquet
  3. Apply firm pressure to the site after the draw Correct answer.
  4. Draw from a site near a joint

Explanation

Patients with bleeding disorders are at increased risk of prolonged bleeding and hematoma, so firm pressure after the draw is essential. Needle size, tourniquet use, and site selection are secondary considerations.

Question 47TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which factor should be considered when selecting a vein for venipuncture in an obese patient?

  1. Palpation rather than visualization to locate the vein Correct answer.
  2. Collection from the foot
  3. Use of a longer tourniquet
  4. Collection without a tourniquet

Explanation

In patients with excess subcutaneous tissue, veins may not be visible and must be located by palpation. Palpation helps identify the direction and depth of the vein. Foot collection and skipping the tourniquet are not standard solutions.

Question 48TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which statement about the use of a winged collection set (butterfly) is accurate?

  1. It eliminates the need for a tourniquet
  2. It is used only for blood donation
  3. It is useful for small or fragile veins Correct answer.
  4. It is used only for arterial collection

Explanation

Winged sets provide flexibility and a smaller needle, making them useful for small or fragile veins and for sites that are difficult to access. They do not eliminate the need for a tourniquet and are not limited to blood donation or arterial collection.

Question 49TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

A phlebotomist observes that a patient's vein feels hard and cord-like. What does this finding most likely suggest?

  1. A vein that will yield a larger specimen
  2. A sclerosed vein that should be avoided Correct answer.
  3. A normal, healthy vein
  4. A vein that is ideal for collection

Explanation

A hard, cord-like vein may be sclerosed from previous venipuncture or infusion and is more difficult to puncture and less likely to yield a good specimen. A different site should be selected. Normal veins are soft and resilient.

Question 50TMC Examination content areas (official Detailed Content Outline not enumerated in source text)

Which action is appropriate when a patient refuses a blood draw?

  1. Ask another staff member to hold the patient
  2. Proceed with the draw anyway
  3. Respect the refusal and notify the appropriate staff Correct answer.
  4. Draw the blood while the patient is distracted

Explanation

A competent patient has the right to refuse a procedure. The phlebotomist should respect the refusal and inform the ordering provider or appropriate staff. Proceeding against the patient's wishes or using force is not acceptable.