NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Specimen HandlingEasy
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to transport a blood specimen that requires protection from light. Which of the following methods should the technician use?
- AUse a biohazard bag with a transparent front pocket.
- BPlace the specimen in a clear plastic bag.
- CWrap the specimen in aluminum foil.
- DTransport the specimen on ice.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Wrap the specimen in aluminum foil.
Wrapping the specimen in aluminum foil or using an amber-colored tube/bag provides effective protection from light, which is crucial for light-sensitive analytes like bilirubin or folate.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A transparent front pocket would expose the specimen to light, defeating the purpose.
- B. A clear plastic bag offers no protection from light.
- D. Transporting on ice protects against temperature degradation, not light degradation.
Light Protection
Certain analytes in blood specimens are sensitive to light and can degrade, leading to inaccurate test results. These specimens must be protected from light exposure during collection, transport, and storage.
- Analytes like bilirubin, folate, and porphyrins are light-sensitive.
- Light exposure can cause degradation and false low results.
- Use amber tubes, foil, or dark bags for protection.
Memory trick: Light is bright, so keep it out of sight.