ASCP Patient Identification and Specimen Labeling Flashcards

What is the minimum number of patient identifiers required before blood collection according to CLSI standards?

Answer: Two

CLSI standards require at least two patient identifiers before specimen collection to ensure patient safety.

Which of the following is an acceptable patient identifier for venipuncture?

Answer: Patient date of birth

Date of birth is an acceptable identifier; room, bed, and floor numbers are location-based and not acceptable.

When collecting from an inpatient, the phlebotomist should compare the requisition with:

Answer: The patient's armband

The phlebotomist must compare requisition information with the patient's armband to confirm identity.

An unconscious patient without an armband needs blood drawn. What should the phlebotomist do?

Answer: Have a nurse confirm identity and apply an emergency ID band before drawing

For unidentified or unconscious patients, a nurse must confirm identity and an emergency ID band must be applied before collection.

Which method is considered the MOST reliable for identifying outpatients who lack a hospital armband?

Answer: Government-issued photo ID

A government-issued photo ID is the most reliable method for identifying outpatients because it provides visual verification.

A patient spells their name differently than what appears on the requisition. The phlebotomist should:

Answer: Ask the patient to confirm and correct the requisition before drawing

Any discrepancy in patient information must be resolved before specimen collection to prevent misidentification errors.