CSMC Principles of Medical Technology Practice

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the Principles of Medical Technology Practice lecture.

Pre-analytical considerations

Factors that influence the quality and accuracy of laboratory test results before the analysis phase.

Physiological variables

Biological factors that can affect laboratory test results, including age, gender, and altitude.

Specimen quality

The integrity and conditions of a blood sample that ensure accurate laboratory results.

Hematoma

A localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often resulting from a venipuncture.

Iatrogenic anemia

Anemia caused by medical treatment, often due to blood loss from procedures such as venipuncture.

Vascular access devices

Medical devices used to gain access to the vascular system for treatment or blood sampling.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

A substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation, often measured in blood tests.

Arterial line

A catheter placed in an artery to continuously measure blood pressure and draw blood samples.

Serum

The liquid portion of clotted blood that is clearer than plasma and contains no clotting factors.

Plasma

The liquid portion of unclotted blood that contains proteins, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

Whole blood

A blood sample that includes plasma and red blood cells, often collected with anticoagulants.

Light-sensitive tests

Laboratory tests that require protection from light to maintain the integrity of the sample.

Timed blood specimens

Blood samples collected at specific times to measure changes in concentration of substances.

Hemolysis

The destruction of red blood cells, which can release cellular components into the serum.

Diurnal variation

The natural fluctuations in physiological measurements that occur according to the time of day.

Posture effects on blood testing

Changes in test results based on whether a patient is standing, sitting, or lying down.

Drug therapy effects

How medications can influence laboratory test results, altering measurements of various substances.

Patient complications

Adverse effects that may occur during or after medical procedures, such as fainting or infection.