NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Specimen HandlingMedium
A phlebotomy technician is attempting to aliquot a plasma specimen into several smaller tubes. Which of the following is the most appropriate safety precaution to take?
- ADispose of the original tube in a regular trash can after aliquoting.
- BUse a pipette with a safety bulb or mechanical device.
- CWear sterile gloves and a surgical mask.
- DPerform the aliquoting procedure under a laminar flow hood.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Use a pipette with a safety bulb or mechanical device.
Using a pipette with a safety bulb or mechanical device prevents mouth pipetting, which is a significant biohazard risk when handling specimens. This is a primary safety measure during aliquoting.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The original tube, as a biohazard, must be disposed of in a sharps container or biohazard waste receptacle, not regular trash.
- C. Sterile gloves are not typically required for routine aliquoting; clean exam gloves are sufficient. A surgical mask is for splash protection, but not the 'most appropriate' primary safety tool for aliquoting itself.
- D. A laminar flow hood is primarily for protecting the specimen from contamination or for handling highly infectious agents, not the most appropriate general safety precaution for the technician during routine aliquoting.
Aliquot Safety
Aliquot safety involves measures to protect the phlebotomy technician and prevent contamination when transferring a portion of a specimen from one container to another. Key is avoiding direct contact and aerosol generation.
- Wear PPE (gloves, lab coat, face shield).
- Use mechanical pipetting devices.
- Work over an absorbent pad.
- Avoid splashing and aerosol generation.
Memory trick: When you aliquot, don't mouth-pipette, or a biohazard you'll regret.