Which of the following blood specimen tests are photosensitive and should be protected from light during handling and transportation?
Gastrin
Ammonia
Pyruvate
Bilirubin
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Gastrin is a hormone that stimulates the secretion of gastric acid by the stomach. While it is a critical component in the digestive process, gastrin is not typically sensitive to light, and therefore, does not require protection from light during handling and transportation.
Choice B reason:
Ammonia testing involves measuring the amount of ammonia in the blood, which can indicate liver function and is used in the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy. Ammonia levels are not generally affected by light; thus, special precautions to protect from light are not necessary.
Choice C reason:
Pyruvate is a key intermediate in several metabolic pathways throughout the cell. Pyruvate itself is not considered photosensitive, and standard precautions for handling and transportation are sufficient to maintain its integrity.
Choice D reason:
Bilirubin is a breakdown product of red blood cells and is measured to evaluate liver function and to assess jaundice. Bilirubin is known to be photosensitive; exposure to light can cause it to break down, which can affect the accuracy of test results. Therefore, specimens for bilirubin testing must be protected from light during handling and transportation to ensure valid results.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Quality control measurements are essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of blood glucose monitors. According to best practices, all blood glucose monitors in use, regardless of their origin, should undergo daily quality control checks. This is to verify that the monitors are functioning correctly and providing accurate readings, which is crucial for patient care and treatment decisions.
Choice B reason:
Focusing only on the blood glucose monitors from the new office for daily quality control measurements is not sufficient. While new equipment may be less likely to have wear-and-tear issues that could affect performance, it is still subject to potential inaccuracies and must be included in the daily quality control routine.
Choice C reason:
Similarly, excluding the new monitors and only checking those from the old medical office would neglect the possibility of inaccuracies in the newer equipment. All monitors, irrespective of their age, can experience calibration drift or other issues that affect their performance.
Choice D reason:
Opting not to perform daily quality control measurements on any of the blood glucose monitors would be against the recommended guidelines and could lead to inaccurate blood glucose readings. This could have serious implications for patient health, particularly in the management of diabetes.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Keeping the patient as upright as possible is not recommended in cases of shock. When a patient is in shock, it is important to lay them down and elevate their legs slightly, unless this position causes pain or further injury. This position helps improve blood flow to the brain.
Choice B Reason:
Providing a cooling blanket is not a standard first aid measure for shock due to a medication reaction. A cooling blanket may be used in cases of hyperthermia or heatstroke to reduce body temperature, but not typically for shock, which requires maintaining normal body temperature and preventing chilling.
Choice C Reason:
Administering oral fluids to a patient in shock is not advisable. During shock, a patient may have an impaired swallowing reflex or be unconscious, increasing the risk of aspiration. It is best to avoid giving anything by mouth until medical personnel arrive.
Choice D Reason:
Maintaining an open airway is crucial for a patient in shock. Ensuring that the airway is clear allows the patient to breathe effectively, which is essential for delivering oxygen to the tissues and organs. If the patient is unconscious or has an altered level of consciousness, the phlebotomist should check for breathing and begin CPR if necessary.
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