Collection ProceduresQuestion 21 of 100
How should an EDTA tube be mixed immediately after collection?
a.Shake vigorously five times
b.Invert once and place upright in the rack
c.Invert gently 8 to 10 times
d.Do not mix; the additive dissolves on its own
Explanation
EDTA tubes require roughly 8 to 10 gentle inversions so the anticoagulant coats all the blood and microclots do not form. Vigorous shaking introduces mechanical trauma and hemolysis, which invalidates many tests. A single inversion or no mixing at all leaves clotted or clumped specimens that the laboratory must reject.
Law Reference: CLSI GP41Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- A patient had a right mastectomy with lymph node removal 14 months ago and has an IV in the left hand. What should the phlebotomist do?
- Why is the basilic vein the last antecubital choice for venipuncture?
- A light blue tube is filled only two thirds of the way because the vein collapsed. What should the phlebotomist do?
- A phlebotomist collects an aerobic and anaerobic blood culture set, then a green heparin tube, then a light blue citrate tube. What is the main problem?
- A phlebotomist has just filled a light blue citrate tube. According to the standard order of draw, which tube is collected next?
- A patient is told to pump the fist repeatedly while the tourniquet is on. Which result is most affected?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Exam · How we review