VTNE Plan

Laboratory Procedures: practice questions

2 original questions · 2 editor-approved · every choice explained.

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Blueprint-mapped questions with full rationales for every choice.

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Laboratory ProceduresDifficulty 3/5

An automated analyser reports severe thrombocytopenia in a cat with no bleeding signs. What should be done before the result is reported?

  1. ARepeat the sample in a citrate tube to confirm the platelet count
  2. BExamine a blood film to estimate platelets and check for clumping
  3. CReport the result immediately, since analysers are more precise
  4. DRecollect from a different vein using a larger-gauge needle
Show answer and rationale

Correct: B. Feline platelets clump readily, which causes falsely low automated counts. A film estimate confirms or refutes the count before any result is reported.

  • A — Citrate is for coagulation testing and does not resolve the question.
  • C — Analysers systematically undercount clumped feline platelets.
  • D — Recollection may be needed later but the film check comes first.
Laboratory ProceduresDifficulty 2/5

Which tube is appropriate for a complete blood count?

  1. AA sodium citrate tube, which is filled to the marked ratio line
  2. BA lithium heparin tube, which prevents clotting without cell damage
  3. CAn EDTA tube, which preserves cell morphology for haematology
  4. DA plain serum tube, which allows the sample to clot before analysis
Show answer and rationale

Correct: C. EDTA is the anticoagulant of choice for haematology because it preserves cell morphology. Heparin distorts staining, serum tubes clot, and citrate is for coagulation testing.

  • B — Heparin interferes with Romanowsky staining of blood films.
  • D — A clotted sample cannot give a cell count.
  • A — Citrate dilution is designed for coagulation assays.

Primary references

  1. VTNE Candidate Information Handbook — American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) · primary · retrieved 2026-09-22, verified 2026-09-22