American Medical Technologist (AMT) Practice Exam

What type of samples does heparinized plasma typically provide?

1. Samples for blood typing

2. Samples for coagulation testing

3. Samples for metabolic panel testing

4. Samples for microbiological analysis

The correct answer is: Samples for metabolic panel testing

Heparinized plasma is primarily used for coagulation testing due to heparin's properties as an anticoagulant. When blood is drawn into tubes containing heparin, the heparin prevents the blood from clotting, allowing for the assessment of various coagulation factors and pathways. This makes it ideal for tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT), which evaluate the blood's ability to clot properly. The other types of samples mentioned do not align with the intended use of heparinized plasma. Blood typing typically requires serum or whole blood, biochemical panels usually employ serum or gel separators rather than anticoagulated plasma, and microbiological analyses generally require specific handling and culture mediums that are not compatible with heparinized specimens. Therefore, the properties of heparinized plasma distinctly support coagulation testing.