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

Which patient should be processed last from the waiting list for blood collection?

1. Patient #1

2. Patient #2

3. Patient #3

4. Patient #4

The correct answer is: Patient #3

In the context of prioritizing patients for blood collection, the decision on which patient should be processed last often depends on specific clinical factors or the urgency of their condition. If C is the correct choice, it could indicate that this patient has a less urgent need for blood collection compared to the others. For instance, if Patient #3 has a stable condition or is undergoing routine testing, they are likely prioritized lower than patients who may require immediate blood draws for critical diagnoses, surgery preparation, or emergency care. Therefore, aligning the order of blood collection with the severity and clinical needs of patients helps to ensure that those in critical conditions receive timely care, while those with less urgency wait longer. This strategy optimizes the overall efficiency of the health care system and patient outcomes. Understanding these nuances allows histotechnologists to appreciate the context of patient care and the importance of prioritization in clinical environments.