American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) Phlebotomy Practice Exam

Improper blood sample transportation can significantly affect the integrity of the sample, leading to altered test results due to temperature variations. Blood samples are sensitive to temperature changes which can cause cellular degradation and biochemical reactions that do not reflect the patient's true physiological state at the time of collection. For instance, if a sample is exposed to excessive heat or cold, it can result in the breakdown of enzymes and metabolites, impacting the accuracy of tests such as electrolyte levels, liver function tests, or coagulation profiles. Maintaining the proper temperature is crucial for preserving the sample's integrity and ensuring reliable results.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of improper transportation. While increased serum volumes and enhanced coagulation times may occur in certain laboratory scenarios, they are not direct results of improper transportation practices. Additionally, reduced need for retesting would not normally be a consequence of improper blood sample handling; in fact, such practices often lead to an increased need for repeat testing to obtain accurate results.