20+ Lab Technician and Phlebotomist Interview Questions and Answers

To ensure correct results of patient blood samples, proper collection, labeling, handling, and processing techniques must be followed.

• Properly identify the patient using two unique identifiers before collecting the blood sample (e.g. name and date of birth).

• Use sterile equipment and follow aseptic techniques to prevent contamination of the sample.

• Label the sample accurately with the patient's information and ensure it matches the requisition form.

• Handle and transport the samp...read more

Pathology laboratories typically have multiple departments for different types of testing and analysis.

• Common departments include clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, and cytology

• Each department specializes in a different area of testing and analysis

• Pathology laboratories may also have specialized departments for molecular diagnostics, genetics, and toxicology

Blood group is a classification of blood based on the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells.

• Blood group is determined by the presence or absence of antigens A and B on red blood cells.

• There are four main blood groups: A, B, AB, and O.

• The Rh factor (positive or negative) is also important in blood typing.

• Blood group compatibility is crucial for blood transfusions to avoid adverse reactions.

• Example: A person with blood group A has A antigens ...read more

Edta tube is used for collecting blood samples for tests like CBC, HbA1c, CD4 count, and other hematological tests.

• Edta tube is commonly used for complete blood count (CBC) to analyze different types of blood cells.

• HbA1c test, which measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, is also done using blood collected in Edta tube.

• CD4 count, a test to monitor the immune system in HIV patients, is another test that uses blood collected in Edta tube.

• Other hematologica...read more

Samples are collected through various methods depending on the type of test required.

• Blood samples are usually collected through venipuncture or fingerstick

• Urine samples are collected in a sterile container

• Stool samples are collected in a clean container

• Swab samples are collected using a sterile swab

• Samples may also be collected through biopsy or aspiration

Normal range of HB in human body is 12-16 g/dL for women and 14-18 g/dL for men.

• Normal range for women: 12-16 g/dL

• Normal range for men: 14-18 g/dL

• HB stands for Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body

CBC stands for Complete Blood Count, a common blood test that provides information about the cells in the blood.

• CBC is used to evaluate overall health, diagnose conditions, and monitor treatment.

• It measures different components of blood including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

• Results can indicate issues like anemia, infection, or clotting disorders.

• CBC is typically ordered by doctors for various reasons such as routine check-ups or to investigate symptoms ...read more

Patients should be given clear instructions regarding their medical procedures and follow-up care.

• Explain the procedure and its purpose

• Provide any necessary preparation instructions

• Inform patients of any potential risks or side effects

• Give clear instructions for follow-up care

• Answer any questions the patient may have

Order of draw is the sequence of collecting blood samples in different tubes to avoid cross-contamination and ensure accurate results.

• It is a standardized protocol followed by phlebotomists to collect blood samples.

• The order of draw starts with tubes that contain additives and ends with plain tubes.

• The purpose of the order of draw is to prevent contamination of samples with additives from previous tubes.

• For example, the first tube collected is for blood cultures, followed by ...read more

Laboratory precautions are measures taken to ensure safety and accuracy in the laboratory.

• Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and goggles

• Properly labeling and storing chemicals and specimens

• Following established protocols and procedures

• Maintaining a clean and organized work area

• Disposing of hazardous waste properly

• Regularly calibrating and maintaining equipment

• Reporting any accidents or incidents immediately

Hormonal tests are blood tests that measure the levels of hormones in the body to assess various health conditions.

• Hormonal tests are commonly used to diagnose hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, and reproductive issues.

• Examples of hormonal tests include thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test, and testosterone test.

• These tests are important in determining the functioning of endocrine glands and overall hormonal he...read more

The Order of Drow is a fictional society in the Dungeons & Dragons fantasy role-playing game.

• The Order of Drow is a group of dark elves who live in the Underdark.

• They are known for their cruelty, treachery, and worship of the spider goddess Lolth.

• The Order of Drow is often depicted as a matriarchal society, with powerful priestesses and female warriors.

• Examples of famous Drow characters include Drizzt Do'Urden and Lloth, the Spider Queen.

The order of draw refers to the sequence in which different blood collection tubes should be filled during a venipuncture procedure.

• The order of draw is important to prevent cross-contamination of additives between tubes.

• Common order of draw includes tubes for coagulation studies, chemistry tests, and blood cultures.

• For example, tubes with additives like EDTA should be drawn before tubes with additives like citrate or heparin.

Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count in the blood, which can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising.

• Thrombocytopenia is diagnosed when the platelet count in the blood is below normal levels.

• Common symptoms include easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, and frequent nosebleeds.

• Causes of thrombocytopenia can include certain medications, autoimmune disorders, infections, and bone marrow disorders.

• Treatment may involve addressing the ...read more

Thrombocythemia is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of platelets in the blood.

• Thrombocythemia is also known as essential thrombocythemia.

• It can lead to an increased risk of blood clotting.

• Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, and weakness.

• Treatment may involve medications to reduce platelet count.

LFT - Liver Function Test, RFT - Renal Function Test, CBC - Complete Blood Count

• LFT stands for Liver Function Test, which is a group of blood tests that measure various enzymes and proteins in the liver.

• RFT stands for Renal Function Test, which is a group of tests that evaluate how well the kidneys are functioning.

• CBC stands for Complete Blood Count, which is a common blood test that provides information about the cells in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cel...read more

Viral marker test is a diagnostic test used to detect specific markers or proteins associated with viral infections in the body.

• Viral marker tests are used to identify the presence of viral infections by detecting specific antigens or antibodies in the blood.

• Examples of viral marker tests include hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test for hepatitis B virus, and HIV antibody test for HIV infection.

• These tests help in diagnosing viral infections, monitoring disease progressio...read more

Suckling test is a diagnostic test used to determine the presence of maternal antibodies in newborns.

• Performed by placing a drop of blood from the newborn on a filter paper

• The filter paper is then allowed to dry and is sent to the laboratory for testing

• Presence of maternal antibodies in the newborn's blood indicates successful transfer of immunity from the mother

The normal range of lipid profile includes total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

• Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL

• LDL cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL

• HDL cholesterol: Greater than 40 mg/dL for men and greater than 50 mg/dL for women

• Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

EDTA stands for Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.

• EDTA is a chemical compound commonly used as an anticoagulant in blood collection tubes.

• It binds to calcium ions in the blood, preventing clotting.

• EDTA is also used as a chelating agent to remove heavy metals from the body.

• It is commonly used in laboratory settings for various purposes, such as preserving blood samples for analysis.

• EDTA is available in different forms, including powder, liquid, and pre-filled tubes.