OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

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What is an essential part of all specimen collection procedures?

Unused disposable needles
Clean glassware
Hand washing
A pen

The correct answer is: Hand washing

Hand washing is an essential part of all specimen collection procedures because it significantly reduces the risk of contamination, protects the integrity of the specimen, and ensures the safety of both the healthcare professional and the patient. Effective hand hygiene before and after handling specimens helps prevent the transmission of pathogens, thereby promoting accurate test results and protecting public health. This practice is fundamental in clinical settings, as it aligns with infection control protocols and guidelines. In contrast, while unused disposable needles and clean glassware are important for preventing contamination of blood and other specimens, they are not universal requirements for all types of specimen collection. The use of a pen is not typically a critical element of the procedure itself, although it may be necessary for documentation purposes. Thus, hand washing stands out as a universally applicable practice in specimen collection.