Question 1

Which of the following is a primary benefit of using capillary blood collection over venipuncture in pediatric patients?

Accepted Answer

It reduces the risk of iatrogenic anemia and nerve damage.

Question 2

Which laboratory test is NOT recommended to be performed using capillary blood due to sample dilution or volume requirements?

Accepted Answer

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

Question 3

A phlebotomist is preparing to collect a capillary blood sample from an adult with fragile veins. Which site is most appropriate for the puncture?

Accepted Answer

Fleshy, central palmar surface of the distal phalanx of the third (middle) finger

Question 4

Why is it important to control the depth of the incision during a skin puncture, especially in infants?

Accepted Answer

To avoid hitting bone and causing infection

Question 5

Which of the following is a correct step in the basic technique for collecting a capillary blood specimen?

Accepted Answer

Wipe away the first drop of blood unless specified for point-of-care tests.

Question 6

Which of the following statements about the composition of capillary blood is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It contains a higher proportion of arterial blood due to stronger arterial pressure.

Question 7

A patient requires a capillary blood sample for a CBC and blood glucose. Which order of collection is correct after removing the first drop?

Accepted Answer

Collect CBC (EDTA specimen) first, then blood glucose.

Question 8

Which of the following is a potential cause of hemolysis in a capillary blood specimen?

Accepted Answer

Excessive milking or squeezing of the finger

Question 9

Why should iodine tincture preparations NOT be used to disinfect skin puncture sites for capillary blood collection?

Accepted Answer

They can falsely elevate potassium, phosphorus, or uric acid results.

Question 10

A laboratory receives a capillary blood sample for glucose and potassium analysis. Which of the following is TRUE regarding the expected results compared to venous blood?

Accepted Answer

Capillary blood glucose is higher and potassium is lower than venous blood.

Question 11

Which of the following is NOT a recommended supply for performing a skin puncture?

Accepted Answer

Reusable lancet

Question 12

A phlebotomist is preparing to collect a capillary blood sample from a neonate. Which site should be used?

Accepted Answer

Lateral or medial plantar surface of the heel

Question 13

Which of the following is a reason to avoid using the fifth (pinky) finger for capillary blood collection?

Accepted Answer

It has thinner tissue and a higher risk of hitting bone.

Question 14

A patient is severely dehydrated and requires blood testing. Why is capillary blood collection NOT recommended in this case?

Accepted Answer

Poor circulation may result in an inadequate or diluted sample.

Question 15

Which of the following steps is essential to prevent air bubbles when filling capillary tubes for blood gas analysis?

Accepted Answer

Apply gentle pressure and keep the site downward.

Question 16

Which of the following is a characteristic of an acceptable manual blood smear?

Accepted Answer

Prepared immediately after blood collection with a properly sized drop

Question 17

A phlebotomist is preparing to collect a capillary blood sample for hematology tests. Which anticoagulant should be used in the collection tube?

Accepted Answer

Ethylenediamine tetraacetate (EDTA)

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct method to increase blood flow to the puncture site before capillary blood collection?

Accepted Answer

Warm the site with a towel at $$42^{\circ}C$ for 3 to 5 minutes

Question 19

Which of the following is a reason to avoid collecting capillary blood from a finger on the side of a mastectomy?

Accepted Answer

Potential for fluid buildup due to lymph node removal

Question 20

A patient is performing home glucose monitoring using capillary blood. Which of the following is a key advantage of this method?

Accepted Answer

It is less invasive and allows for easy self-monitoring.

Capillary or Dermal Blood Specimens: Principles and Procedures

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