Medical Technology Licensure Examination (MTLE) Practice Exam

Improper sample handling can lead to a variety of issues that affect the integrity and quality of a specimen, and recognizing the impact of each possibility is crucial in the medical field.

Loss of temperature control can occur if samples are not stored at the appropriate temperature for the required duration. This can lead to degradation of the sample, affecting its viability and the accuracy of test results. Many biological specimens are sensitive to temperature changes, and exposure to inappropriate conditions can significantly compromise their analysis.

Inadequate storage duration refers to keeping samples for a time that exceeds their stability requirements. Different types of specimens have varying shelf lives; for example, certain blood samples may only be stable for a few hours at room temperature. Extended storage beyond recommended durations can cause changes in the composition, which might lead to erroneous results on tests conducted on those samples.

Similarly, hemolysis of the sample can also be a consequence of improper handling. Hemolysis refers to the rupture of red blood cells, which can occur due to mechanical damage during specimen collection or storage. This phenomenon can artificially alter the concentrations of various analytes in the blood, leading to misinterpretation of results.

Given that all these issues—loss of temperature control, inadequate storage duration, and hemolysis—are