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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Arm restraints are typically used to prevent patients from moving, particularly in pediatric or psychiatric settings where the patient may not voluntarily keep still. However, they are not specifically designed for stabilizing the arm during venipuncture procedures.
Choice B Reason:
A blood pressure cuff can be used as a substitute for a tourniquet to engorge the veins before venipuncture, but it is not designed to stabilize the arm during the procedure. Its primary function is to measure blood pressure, not to provide stability.
Choice C Reason:
A phlebotomy wedge is a device specifically designed to support and stabilize a patient's arm during venipuncture. It helps to maintain the arm in a comfortable and steady position, which can be particularly helpful for patients with tremors or for those who have difficulty holding their arm still.
Choice D Reason:
A phlebotomy cart is used to transport and organize phlebotomy supplies. While it is an essential piece of equipment for a phlebotomist, it does not play a role in stabilizing a patient's arm during venipuncture.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots, a process needed to stop bleeding. This condition is not caused by shaking a blood collection tube; it is an inherited disorder typically caused by a mutation in one of the clotting factor genes.
Choice B Reason:
Hemoconcentration refers to an increase in the concentration of cells and solids in the blood, usually resulting from a loss of plasma. While this can occur due to various reasons, such as dehydration, it is not caused by shaking a blood collection tube. Shaking a tube does not change the ratio of cells to plasma in the blood.
Choice C Reason:
Hemolysis is the rupture of red blood cells, which can occur when a blood sample is handled roughly, such as by excessive shaking. This can cause the cells to break open and release their contents into the plasma, which can interfere with laboratory tests and lead to inaccurate results.
Choice D Reason:
Hemostasis is the process by which the body stops bleeding, which involves the clotting of blood. This process is not caused by shaking a blood collection tube. Hemostasis is a complex process that involves blood vessels, platelets, and clotting factors.
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