Which of the following actions is appropriate when transporting a specimen for ABG analysis?
Collecting the specimen in an SST
Placing the specimen in ice
Collecting the specimen in sodium citrate
Inserting the specimen in a light-resistant package
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Collecting the specimen in an SST (serum separator tube) is not suitable for ABG (arterial blood gas) analysis. SST tubes are used for chemistry tests that require serum separation after centrifugation and are not designed for the preservation of blood gases.
Choice B reason:
Placing the specimen in ice is the correct action when transporting a specimen for ABG analysis. Cooling the specimen slows down metabolic processes, which can alter the levels of gases and pH in the blood if not promptly analyzed. This is particularly important if there is a delay expected in the analysis of the ABG specimen.
Choice C reason:
Collecting the specimen in sodium citrate is not appropriate for ABG analysis. Sodium citrate is an anticoagulant used in coagulation studies and would interfere with the measurement of blood gases and pH levels in an ABG analysis.
Choice D reason:
Inserting the specimen in a light-resistant package is not a standard requirement for ABG specimens. While protecting specimens from light is important for certain types of tests, such as those for bilirubin, it is not necessary for ABG analysis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Covering a quarter of the slide is not an acceptable criterion for the quality of a peripheral blood smear. The smear should be spread across the slide in a manner that allows for proper examination under a microscope, and covering only a quarter of the slide would not provide enough area for an adequate assessment.
Choice B reason:
Having a well-defined edge is not specifically indicative of the quality of a peripheral blood smear. While the edges should be clean to allow for clear viewing of the cells at the margins, the quality is more accurately determined by the distribution and integrity of the cells on the slide.
Choice C reason:
Covering the entire slide is also not a criterion for a quality peripheral blood smear. In fact, if the blood covers the entire slide, it may be too thick to allow for proper cell differentiation and examination. A proper smear should have a gradient of cell distribution, ending with a feathered edge.
Choice D reason:
A feathered edge is the correct criterion for a quality peripheral blood smear. The feathered edge is the thinnest part of the smear and is where the cells are ideally distributed in a single layer, which is optimal for microscopic examination. This allows for the best visualization of cell morphology and is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The axillary vein is not commonly used for routine venipuncture due to its location in the armpit area, where it is more difficult to access and poses a higher risk of complications.
Choice B reason:
The median cubital vein is often the vein of choice for venipuncture due to its size and accessibility. However, in the case of a patient with bilateral scarring on the forearms, this vein may be compromised, making it a less suitable option.
Choice C reason:
The basilic vein, while also a common site for venipuncture, is located on the inner aspect of the arm and may be affected by the scarring on the patient's forearms. Additionally, it is closer to nerves and arteries, which increases the risk of complications.
Choice D reason:
The dorsal hand veins are a good alternative for venipuncture when the more common sites are not available, such as in the case of a patient with bilateral scarring on the forearms. These veins are usually more superficial and can be accessed with minimal risk of complications.
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