A phlebotomist should identify that a blood spot collection for inborn errors of metabolism requires which of the following?
The newborn must be at least 3 days old.
The circles on the filter paper must be at least half filled.
The first drop of blood immediately following the puncture must be included.
The specimen must be completely dried before the test can be processed.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
The age of the newborn is important for certain metabolic screenings, as some metabolites may not be present or at measurable levels immediately after birth. However, the requirement for the newborn to be at least 3 days old is not a standard for all blood spot collections for inborn errors of metabolism (IEM). Some screenings are performed within 24 to 48 hours after birth.
Choice B Reason:
While it is important that the circles on the filter paper are adequately filled to ensure there is enough blood for the test, the requirement for them to be at least half filled is not specified in the guidelines. The focus is usually on ensuring the blood spot is of the right size and properly saturated through the filter paper.
Choice C Reason:
The inclusion of the first drop of blood is not typically a requirement. In fact, the first drop is often wiped away to avoid contamination with tissue fluids that could affect the test results. Subsequent drops are used to fill the circles on the filter paper.
Choice D Reason:
The specimen must be completely dried before the test can be processed to prevent degradation or hemolysis of the blood sample. This is a critical step in the preparation of the sample for accurate testing of IEM. The drying process helps preserve the integrity of the metabolites to be analyzed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Covering the spill until maintenance arrives is not an appropriate response to a blood spill. This action does not neutralize any potential pathogens present in the blood, which could pose a risk of infection to others. Immediate cleanup is necessary to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, and simply covering the spill does not meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for bloodborne pathogens, which require the spill to be cleaned with an appropriate disinfectant.
Choice B Reason:
Pouring bleach on the spill and allowing it to soak for 60 seconds is the recommended action because bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill a wide range of pathogens, including those that might be present in venous blood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a 1:10 dilution of household bleach for effectively disinfecting blood spills. After pouring the bleach, it is important to let it soak for an adequate amount of time, usually around 10 minutes, to ensure that all pathogens are killed.
Choice C Reason:
Evacuating the laboratory is not a necessary action for a blood spill unless the spill is extensive and poses additional risks that cannot be mitigated by standard cleanup procedures. In most cases, following the proper spill cleanup protocol, which includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and using an EPA-registered disinfectant, is sufficient to handle the situation without needing to evacuate the area.
Choice D Reason:
Applying a liquid thickening agent on top of the spill is not a standard practice for blood spill cleanup. While a thickening agent might contain the spill, it does not disinfect the area. The priority in such situations is to disinfect and remove any potential infectious agents. Therefore, the use of a thickening agent would not be in compliance with the recommended procedures for blood spill cleanup by OSHA and the CDC.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A multipart requisition involves multiple copies of a paper form, which can be prone to errors due to manual entry, misplacement, or illegible handwriting. While it provides physical copies for various departments, it is not the most accurate method compared to digital solutions.
Choice B Reason:
A manual requisition is similar to a multipart requisition but typically consists of a single form. It carries the same risks of human error and does not offer the benefits of automated tracking and data entry that come with electronic systems.
Choice C Reason:
An automated requisition is considered the most accurate method for receiving orders for specimen collection. It reduces the risk of human error associated with manual data entry and allows for better tracking and integration with laboratory information systems. Automated systems can also provide immediate feedback if there is an issue with the order, such as a missing patient identifier or a test code.
Choice D Reason:
A verbal requisition is the least reliable method as it depends on the memory and communication skills of the individuals involved. It lacks the documentation and verification steps present in written or automated methods, making it susceptible to misunderstandings and errors.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.