Phlebotomy Flashcards

Which of the following is a contraindication for drawing blood from the antecubital area on a specific arm?

Answer: Presence of a dialysis AV fistula on that arm

Drawing from an arm with an AV fistula risks infection and can damage the fistula needed for dialysis.

What is the correct procedure for cleansing a venipuncture site?

Answer: Clean in a circular motion from inside to outside, then allow to air dry

Cleaning from the center outward removes organisms from the puncture site; allowing it to dry ensures full antiseptic effect.

A patient has small, fragile veins. Which needle gauge would be MOST appropriate?

Answer: 23 gauge

A 23-gauge needle is smaller and causes less trauma to fragile veins while still allowing adequate blood flow.

The anticoagulant EDTA works by:

Answer: Chelating calcium ions needed for clotting

EDTA binds (chelates) calcium, which is essential for the coagulation cascade, thereby preventing clot formation.

Which of the following is the BEST action if a needle begins to slide out of the vein during collection?

Answer: Withdraw the needle, apply pressure, and restart with a fresh needle

Once a needle is compromised or has left the vein, it must be withdrawn and replaced to maintain safety and specimen integrity.

Blood culture specimens are collected in which order relative to other tubes?

Answer: After the discard tube but before other tubes

Blood cultures are drawn after a discard tube (if using a butterfly) to eliminate potential contaminants from the needle, before other additives could affect the culture.

What does 'basal state' mean in relation to specimen collection timing?

Answer: The patient has fasted for 12 hours and is collected in the early morning

Basal state refers to the body's resting metabolic condition after a 12-hour fast, typically early morning, providing the most standardized reference values.