Questions Aira Struggled With

When would you use an 18 gauge needle?

Uses

• Blood donation

• Blood bank collections

• Therapeutic phlebotomy

• Rapid collection of large blood volumes

Advantages

• Fast blood flow

• Lowest risk of hemolysis

• Ideal for collecting large volumes

What is the most common needle size used?

21G - if the patient has normal veins this will be the typical answer.

When do you use a 23G butterfly needle?

Uses

• Small veins

• Hand veins

• Pediatric patients

• Geriatric patients

• Difficult venipunctures

Advantages

• Easier vein control

• Better for tiny veins

Disadvantages

• Increased risk of hemolysis

• Slower blood flow

• More likely to clot if collection is slow

Exam Tip
If the patient has small hand veins, a 23G butterfly is often the best choice.

Which test requires both immediate transport on ice and minimal tourniquet time?

Correct answer: B. Lactic acid

What is the black top tube.

Comes after gold in order of draw. Only used for ESR tests. Contains sodium citrate.