CPOCTP Practice Test

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CPOCTP Practice Test (V1)

Dive into practice questions

Question 1

A pharmacist opens a new box of rapid influenza test kits. Before using any kits on patients, what is the first quality control (QC) step that must be performed according to CLIA-waived testing standards?

  1. Run both an external positive and an external negative control and document the expected results.
  2. Verify that the internal control line on the first patient test appears correctly.
  3. Send one test kit from the box to an external laboratory for validation.
  4. Check the expiration date on the box and begin patient testing immediately.

Question 2

A patient presents with a sore throat and fever. The pharmacist performs a rapid antigen test for Strep A, and the result is positive. The pharmacy operates under a collaborative practice agreement (CPA) for this service. Which action is the pharmacist permitted to take?

  1. Inform the patient of the result and tell them to see their primary care physician for a prescription.
  2. Initiate antibiotic therapy (e.g., amoxicillin) according to the protocol outlined in the CPA.
  3. Collect a second sample for a throat culture to confirm the rapid test result before dispensing any medication.
  4. Sell the patient over-the-counter benzocaine lozenges for their symptoms.

Question 3

During a routine POCT for A1c, the testing device displays an error code indicating the blood sample volume was insufficient. What is the correct procedure for the pharmacist to follow?

  1. Attempt to add more blood to the same test cartridge to reach the required volume.
  2. Estimate the A1c result based on the partial reading and document the error.
  3. Discard the used test cartridge, obtain a new sample from the patient using a fresh lancet, and use a new cartridge.
  4. Re-calibrate the machine and then re-run the same insufficient sample.

Question 4

To operate a pharmacy-based point-of-care testing service that includes tests for influenza, Strep A, and lipids, the pharmacy must obtain and maintain which of the following?

  1. A DEA license.
  2. A CLIA Certificate of Waiver.
  3. A nuclear pharmacy permit.
  4. A state-level compounding license.

Answer Key

  • Question 1: A. Run both an external positive and an external negative control and document the expected results. (This is a mandatory QC step for each new lot number and shipment of test kits to ensure they are working correctly.)
  • Question 2: B. Initiate antibiotic therapy (e.g., amoxicillin) according to the protocol outlined in the CPA. (The core purpose of a CPA in this context is to grant the pharmacist authority to act on the test result.)
  • Question 3: C. Discard the used test cartridge, obtain a new sample from the patient using a fresh lancet, and use a new cartridge. (Proper procedure requires a completely new test to ensure accuracy and prevent contamination.)
  • Question 4: B. A CLIA Certificate of Waiver. (This federal certificate is required for any site performing laboratory tests, even simple, low-risk (waived) tests.)