NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What can cause a specimen to hemolyze during collection?

1. Too slow a draw

2. Using an outdated tube

3. Puncturing a vein too deeply

4. Using a too small needle

The correct answer is: Puncturing a vein too deeply

Puncturing a vein too deeply can indeed lead to hemolysis of a specimen during collection. When a needle is inserted too deeply, it can damage the red blood cells by creating a traumatic environment. This trauma can rupture the cells, causing them to release their contents into the surrounding fluid, which results in a hemolyzed specimen. Hemolysis can alter test results and potentially lead to inaccurate diagnoses, reflecting the importance of proper technique in phlebotomy procedures. In this context, drawing blood too slowly may lead to other complications, but it does not directly cause hemolysis. Similarly, while using an outdated tube can compromise the integrity of the specimen, it typically does not result in hemolysis itself. Lastly, using a too small needle can cause difficulties with blood flow and potentially lead to clotting or slow collection but does not inherently cause red blood cell rupture and subsequent hemolysis as puncturing too deeply does. Understanding these nuances is crucial for maintaining the quality of laboratory specimens.