Challenge Your Exam Readiness With Our Free Phlebotomy Practice Questions

First, draw the STAT lactate (Option 1) because it reflects tissue perfusion and sepsis evaluation and requires strict handling (minimal stasis, on ice, prompt separation). Next, collect the blood cultures “now” BEFORE antibiotics on ICU (Option 3); therapy may be imminent, and cultures must precede it to maximize yield. Then obtain the precisely timed cyclosporine trough at 08:00 (Option 2), verifying the last dose time with nursing/pharmacy to confirm true trough status. Finally, complete routine wellness labs (Option 4). Thus, the optimal sequence is 1 → 3 → 2 → 4 (Option A). If geography threatens the 08:00 trough timing after completing 1 and 3, coordinate assistance or confirm timing flexibility with the unit. Document exact collection times, employ proper asepsis for cultures (cultures first in their local draw), and ensure lactate handling. This defensible prioritization reflects clinical urgency and timing—core exam competencies.