American Allied Health Practice Exam 2026 - Free Allied Health Practice Questions and Study Guide

Bilirubin is a substance that is produced during the breakdown of red blood cells and is a crucial marker for assessing liver function as well as diagnosing conditions like jaundice. When testing for bilirubin levels, it is vital to protect the sample from light, as exposure can lead to the degradation of the bilirubin molecules, resulting in inaccurate test results. This sensitivity to light is a key characteristic that laboratory technicians must be aware of when handling and processing bilirubin samples.

In contrast, tests such as the cholesterol test, electrolyte panel, and hematocrit test do not have this specific requirement. Samples for these tests are not significantly affected by light, making the handling procedures less stringent in this regard. Therefore, recognizing the unique requirements of bilirubin testing helps ensure accurate diagnoses and patient management in clinical settings.