Medical Terminology
What does the abbreviation "AC" stand for in medical terminology?
Ante cibum (before meals).
What is the specific action of the thixotropic gel found in SST tubes?
It forms a physical barrier between the serum and the cells after centrifugation.
What is the first step to take after a needlestick injury?
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
What is the proper angle of needle insertion for a standard venipuncture?
15-30 degrees.
What are two forms of patient identification that must be confirmed before performing a venipuncture?
Patient's full name and date of birth.
Define "hematoma."
A collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often causing swelling and discoloration.
Explain why a light-blue-top tube must be filled to the indicated level.
To maintain the correct 9:1 blood-to-anticoagulant ratio for accurate coagulation testing.
What is the purpose of using safety needles and needle holders?
To reduce the risk of needlestick injuries.
What is the purpose of inverting tubes after collection?
To mix the blood with the additives in the tube, preventing clotting or ensuring proper distribution.
How should a phlebotomist handle a patient who expresses anxiety about having their blood drawn?
By speaking calmly, explaining the procedure, and reassuring the patient.
What does "phlebitis" mean?
Inflammation of a vein.
What is the purpose of the sodium fluoride in a gray-top tube, and how does it achieve this?
It inhibits glycolysis, the breakdown of glucose, by inactivating enzymes involved in the process.
What information should be included in a needlestick incident report?
Time and date of incident, type of device involved, details of the procedure, and actions taken after the incident.
How do you select an appropriate venipuncture site?
By palpating for a vein that is large, bouncy, and well-anchored, avoiding areas with scarring, hematomas, or edema.
What steps should be taken when a patient refuses a blood draw?
Respect the patient's decision, document the refusal, and notify the physician or appropriate personnel.
Define "hemolysis."
The rupture or destruction of red blood cells.
Describe the difference between a plasma separator tube (PST) and a serum separator tube (SST) in terms of their additives and the resulting sample.
PSTs contain heparin and a gel separator, yielding plasma. SSTs contain a clot activator and a gel separator, yielding serum.
What are the components of standard precautions for infection control?
Hand hygiene, use of PPE (personal protective equipment), safe injection practices, and safe handling of potentially contaminated equipment.
Describe the procedure for performing a capillary puncture (finger stick).
Clean the site, puncture the skin with a lancet perpendicular to the fingerprint lines, wipe away the first drop of blood, and collect the blood into the appropriate microcollection tubes.
How should a phlebotomist approach a patient who has difficult veins?
Employ techniques such as using a warm compress, applying gentle pressure, or using a butterfly needle.
What does "nosocomial infection" refer to?
An infection acquired in a hospital or healthcare setting.
What are the components and function of the additives within a yellow top (ACD) tube?
Acid citrate dextrose. The citrate acts as an anticoagulant by binding to calcium, and the dextrose acts as a preservative for red blood cells. Used for DNA testing and blood banking.
What is the procedure for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following a needlestick from a potentially infectious source?
Immediate medical evaluation, risk assessment, and administration of appropriate medications to prevent infection, according to facility policy.
Explain the steps involved in performing a venipuncture using a winged infusion set (butterfly needle).
Assemble equipment, apply tourniquet, clean site, insert needle at an angle, advance into vein, attach tube holder and tubes, release tourniquet, remove needle, apply pressure, and bandage.
Describe how to communicate with a patient who is non-English speaking or has a hearing impairment.
Use visual aids, gesture, or a certified medical interpreter. Confirm understanding using teach back methods.