Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Phlebotomy Technician Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which additive is found in a lavender-top tube?
• Sodium citrate

B. EDTA

• Heparin
• Sodium fluoride

Rationale: EDTA is an anticoagulant that chelates calcium and is used

for hematology tests.

• What is the most common site for venipuncture?
• Basilic vein
• Cephalic vein 1 / 4

• Median cubital vein
• Dorsal hand vein

Rationale: The median cubital vein is preferred because it is large,

close to the surface, and has minimal risk to nerves.

• When should a phlebotomist identify the patient?
• After drawing the specimen
• Before drawing the specimen
• After labeling the tube
• After processing the specimen

Rationale: Proper patient identification before collection prevents

misidentification and ensures patient safety.

• What is the proper angle for needle insertion during a venipuncture?
• 15–30 degrees
• 45–60 degrees
• 15–30 degrees
• 5–10 degrees

Rationale: A 15–30 degree angle is appropriate for venipuncture in

most adult veins.

• Which of the following is a bloodborne pathogen?
• E. coli
• Hepatitis B virus
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Clostridium perfringens 2 / 4

Rationale: Hepatitis B virus is transmitted through blood and body

fluids and is a key concern in phlebotomy.

• Which tube is used for coagulation studies?
• Red-top tube
• Green-top tube
• Light blue-top tube
• Lavender-top tube

Rationale: Light blue-top tubes contain sodium citrate, which binds

calcium to prevent clotting for coagulation tests.

• What is the order of draw for blood collection?
• Red, blue, green, lavender
• Blood culture, light blue, red, green, lavender
• Lavender, green, red, light blue
• Green, lavender, red, blue

Rationale: Correct order of draw prevents additive contamination

and ensures accurate test results.

• What is the first step after a needle stick injury?
• Wash hands only
• Wash the site with soap and water and report immediately
• Apply bandage only
• Ignore if asymptomatic

Rationale: Immediate washing and reporting are critical to reduce

the risk of infection. 3 / 4

• How long should a tourniquet be left on?
• 5 minutes
• No longer than 1 minute
• 2–3 minutes
• 10 minutes

Rationale: Prolonged tourniquet application can cause

hemoconcentration and affect lab results.

• What is the term for destruction of red blood cells?
• Leukocytosis
• Hemolysis
• Thrombocytopenia
• Coagulation

Rationale: Hemolysis refers to the rupture of red blood cells, which

can interfere with test results.

• Which of the following is a responsibility of a phlebotomist?
• Diagnosing diseases
• Prescribing medications
• Collecting blood specimens properly
• Interpreting test results

Rationale: Phlebotomists are trained to collect specimens safely but

do not diagnose or interpret results.

• What is the appropriate action if a patient faints during

venipuncture?

• / 4