NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What types of blood testing are typically performed in a reference laboratory?

1. Only routine tests

2. Common tests only

3. Specialized or obscure tests

4. Emergency tests

The correct answer is: Specialized or obscure tests

Reference laboratories are equipped to handle a wide variety of tests that usually include specialized or obscure tests not typically performed in smaller laboratories or outpatient settings. These tests often require advanced technology, specific reagents, or specialized personnel. Reference laboratories play a critical role in expanding test availability beyond common or routine testing, providing valuable data for rare diseases, complex biochemical markers, genetic tests, and various special assays. The focus here is on the capacity to process nuanced or infrequent tests that demand extensive resources or expertise. In contrast, routine tests are generally handled in local or hospital facilities, while emergency tests are typically conducted in urgent care or point-of-care settings where immediate results are necessary. Thus, the distinction of a reference laboratory lies in its ability to offer these specialized testing services that support comprehensive patient care and diagnostic processes.