Patient Identification and Preparation Flashcards

Which of the following is the most critical and mandatory step for proper patient identification in a hospital setting?

Answer: Actively comparing the requisition information with the patient's wristband.

According to standard phlebotomy procedures, the most crucial step for identifying an inpatient is to actively compare the information on the test requisition with the information on the patient's identification wristband. This wristband contains unique identifiers. While asking for a name and date of birth is also a required step, the wristband provides the definitive link between the patient and their medical records.

A phlebotomist arrives to draw blood from an outpatient. The patient's stated name matches the requisition, but the date of birth is different. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Answer: Do not draw the blood and ask the nurse or ordering physician to resolve the discrepancy.

Any discrepancy in patient identification information must be resolved before proceeding with the blood collection. Drawing blood from a patient with conflicting identifiers is a major safety risk. The phlebotomist must stop and seek assistance from a nurse or the ordering physician to clarify and correct the information to ensure the sample is collected from the correct individual.

When preparing to draw blood for a fasting glucose test, the phlebotomist asks the patient if they have been fasting. The patient replies, "Yes, I haven't eaten since last night, but I did have a small cup of black coffee this morning." What should the phlebotomist do?

Answer: Inform the patient that coffee can affect the results and consult with the nurse or physician before proceeding.

Fasting for blood tests typically means no food or drink, except for water, for a specified period. Coffee, even black, contains substances that can affect test results, particularly for glucose and lipid panels. The correct procedure is to inform the patient of the potential impact and consult with the ordering physician or nurse for guidance on whether to proceed with the collection or reschedule.

Which of the following actions is a key component of obtaining informed consent before performing a venipuncture?

Answer: Explaining the procedure, its purpose, and potential risks like bruising or fainting.

Informed consent involves ensuring the patient understands the procedure they are about to undergo. This includes explaining what will happen, the reason for the test, and any common, potential risks or complications, such as pain, bruising, or fainting. This allows the patient to make an educated decision and grant permission for the blood draw.

To ensure the integrity of the specimen and the safety of the patient, when is the correct time to label the blood collection tubes?

Answer: Immediately after the blood is drawn, in the presence of the patient.

The standard and mandatory procedure is to label all specimen tubes immediately after collection, before leaving the patient's side. This practice minimizes the risk of mislabeling, which could lead to a catastrophic medical error. Pre-labeling or labeling away from the patient significantly increases the chance of a mix-up.

A phlebotomist is preparing to draw blood from an anxious patient who has a history of fainting. Which of the following is the BEST preparation step to take?

Answer: Have the patient lie down in a supine position for the draw.

For patients who are anxious or have a history of syncope (fainting), the safest course of action is to have them lie down. This position minimizes the risk of injury should the patient faint during or after the procedure. Reassuring the patient is also important, but positioning is a critical safety measure.