Choice A reason:

Choice A reason:
Holding the two slides at a 90-degree angle is not the correct technique for performing a blood smear. This angle is too steep and would not allow the blood to spread thinly across the slide, which is necessary for creating a quality smear that can be examined under a microscope.

Choice B reason:
Allowing the blood drop to clot slightly before performing the smear is not advisable. Clotting can interfere with the spread of the blood and the formation of a monolayer, which is essential for accurate microscopic examination. The blood should be fresh and anticoagulated to prevent clotting.

Choice C reason:
Holding the slides at a 30-degree angle is the correct technique for performing a blood smear. This angle allows the spreader slide to push the blood drop smoothly across the patient slide, creating a thin, even layer of blood that is ideal for microscopic analysis. The angle, speed, and pressure must be consistent to achieve a quality smear.

Choice D reason:
Allowing the blood drop to clot completely before performing the smear would make it impossible to create a smear. Clotted blood cannot be spread into a thin layer, which is necessary for microscopic examination of the blood cells.

Choice A Reason:
Occult blood detection is a test that a phlebotomist is allowed to perform according to CLIA regulations. This test is typically used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or other digestive system diseases. It is considered a waived test under CLIA, meaning it is simple and carries a low risk for an incorrect result.

Choice B Reason:
Flow cytometry is a complex test that requires specialized training and equipment. It is used to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of particles in a fluid as they pass through at least one laser. Phlebotomists are not typically trained to perform this type of analysis, as it falls under the category of high complexity testing.

Choice C Reason:
Genetic molecular tests are used to detect specific sequences in DNA or RNA that may or may not lead to disease. These tests are complex and require specialized knowledge and equipment. They are not within the scope of practice for phlebotomists, who are trained primarily in blood collection.

Choice D Reason:
Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate DNA, RNA, or protein molecules based on their size and electrical charge. This type of test is also complex and requires specialized training and equipment, which is beyond the scope of a phlebotomist's duties.