Question 1

Blood collectors are involved in which of the following phases of the testing process?

Accepted Answer

Blood collectors are involved in both the preexamination and postexamination phases. In the preexamination phase, they are responsible for collecting the correct specimens properly, and in the postexamination phase, they may be involved in communicating results and ensuring proper handling and transport of specimens for further analysis if needed.

Question 2

The majority of healthcare-associated infections are caused by which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Personnel not following established infection control procedures is the most common cause of healthcare-associated infections. Contaminated surgical instruments and blood transfusions can also contribute to healthcare-associated infections, but they are not the primary cause. Radiation from radiology procedures does not cause healthcare-associated infections.

Question 3

Which of the following are necessary when operating the centrifuge?

Accepted Answer

All of the options are necessary when operating the centrifuge to ensure safe and effective operation. Firmly securing the lid before operating prevents any spills. Making a final check of balancing before closing the lid ensures that the samples are evenly distributed and there is no risk of the centrifuge becoming unbalanced during operation. Finally, checking for excessive vibration before walking away ensures that the centrifuge is running smoothly and there are no potential safety hazards.

Question 4

A major safety concern when processing samples is the:

Accepted Answer

Production of aerosols can pose a major safety concern when processing samples as they can increase the risk of exposure to infectious agents or other harmful materials. Aerosols can be produced during various sample processing techniques such as vortexing, sonication, or pipetting. It is essential to use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and work in a designated biohazard safety cabinet to minimize the risk of aerosol exposure. Therefore, A) is the correct choice.

B) Use of transfer systems is not a major safety concern; however, it is important to use proper techniques when transferring samples to prevent contamination and ensure accuracy.

C) Autoclaving of samples follows a specific protocol and is generally performed under controlled conditions to prevent exposure to harmful agents. Autoclaving is a safe practice when performed correctly.

D) Volume and type of sample depends on the specific laboratory setting and protocols. However, they do not necessarily pose a major safety concern unless they contain hazardous material.

Question 5

Interstate shipping of infectious material is regulated by the:

Accepted Answer

The U.S. Department of Transportation regulates the shipping of hazardous materials, including infectious materials, through their Hazardous Materials Regulations. This includes regulations for packaging, labeling, and documentation.

Question 6

Needle safety devices should be activated using both hands.

Accepted Answer

Needle safety devices are designed to be activated using a one-handed technique to minimize the risk of needlestick injuries.

Question 7

Quality management is a process that guarantees accurate test results,timely delivery of samples to the laboratory,and quality patient care.

Accepted Answer

Quality management is a crucial aspect of laboratory testing and patient care. It ensures that the testing process is accurate, reliable, and safe for patients. Quality management involves a range of activities, including monitoring the accuracy and precision of test results, implementing quality control measures, and maintaining appropriate documentation and record-keeping procedures. Ultimately, effective quality management helps to ensure that patients receive timely and accurate diagnoses, leading to better health outcomes.

Question 8

Postexposure prophylaxis should be initiated within 24 hours for maximum benefit.

Accepted Answer

Postexposure prophylaxis is most effective when initiated as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, after exposure to a pathogen. Delays in initiating the prophylaxis can reduce its effectiveness.

Question 9

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may be used as a substitute for handwashing:

Accepted Answer

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may be used as a substitute for handwashing only when the hands are not visibly contaminated with blood or other body fluids. In all other situations, handwashing with soap and water should be performed. Option A and B are incorrect because alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used in any setting where hand hygiene is required. Option C is incorrect as it is not always appropriate to use hand sanitizers, particularly when hands are visibly soiled or contaminated.

Question 10

Chain of custody refers to the:

Accepted Answer

Chain of custody refers specifically to the documentation and handling of legal samples, such as those collected for evidence in criminal investigations or job-related drug testing. This process is important in ensuring the integrity of the samples and the accuracy of any test results. It includes documenting the collection, transportation, and storage of the samples, as well as the individuals responsible for handling them at each step of the process.

Question 11

The needle holder that is part of the evacuated tube collection system is:

Accepted Answer

The needle holder and collection needle should be disposed of together as a unit in a sharps container to prevent accidental injury to healthcare workers and ensure proper handling of potentially infectious materials.

Question 12

Samples should remain covered during processing and storage before actual testing to:

Accepted Answer

Samples should remain covered during processing and storage to reduce the chances of splashing, contamination, and evaporation. This helps maintain the integrity of the samples and prevents any introduction of external factors that may affect the test results. The other options (A, C, and D) are not valid reasons for covering samples during processing and storage.

Question 13

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is the laboratory regulating agency that is made up of laboratory,industry,and government personnel.

Accepted Answer

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is a federal agency within the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that administers the nation's major healthcare programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It does not consist of a mix of laboratory, industry, and government personnel but is rather a governmental body responsible for overseeing these programs, including regulating certain aspects of laboratory testing under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).

Quiz 1: Introduction to Blood Collection