ASCP Phlebotomy Technician Certification Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Study Guide for Success!

The correct answer is strep throat (Group A) because this bacterial infection is contagious and can be transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Phlebotomists, or any healthcare professionals, are advised to avoid contact with patients for 24 hours after they start antibiotic treatment for strep throat to ensure they are no longer contagious and to prevent the spread of infection.

In contrast, while a cold, flu, or viral gastroenteritis may also cause symptoms and impact a healthcare worker's ability to interact with patients, the specific guidelines for avoiding patient contact for 24 hours after starting antibiotics specifically apply to bacterial infections like strep throat, where antibiotics are effective in reducing contagion. In the case of the flu and cold, while these are also viral infections, there isn't typically a similar 24-hour contact avoidance rule after treatment begins, as the nature of their contagion and recovery can differ significantly. Viral gastroenteritis is generally not treated with antibiotics, which further distinguishes it from strep throat in this context.