American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

What should a phlebotomist do if they unknowingly take a blood specimen that was placed on ice to the lab without checking the request?

1. Discard the specimen

2. Request a repeat sample submitted at room temperature

3. Send the specimen as is

4. Contact the physician for further instructions

The correct answer is: Request a repeat sample submitted at room temperature

In the context of handling blood specimens, specific instructions related to temperature and handling must always be adhered to in order to maintain the integrity of the samples. When a blood specimen is required to be kept on ice, it is typically because the analytes within the sample are temperature-sensitive and can degrade or alter if not preserved correctly. If a phlebotomist takes a specimen that was meant to be on ice to the lab without recognizing this requirement, they must consider the potential impact on the test results. By choosing to request a repeat sample submitted at room temperature, the phlebotomist is ensuring that the integrity of the testing process is preserved. This action acknowledges that the original specimen is likely compromised due to improper handling, highlighting the importance of following specific protocols for each type of specimen collection. This approach minimizes errors and ensures that the laboratory receives a sample that can yield accurate results, ultimately leading to better patient care outcomes.