Phlebotomy – Duties and Responsibilities Flashcards

What is the primary responsibility of a phlebotomist?

Answer: Collecting blood specimens accurately

A phlebotomist's primary responsibility is to collect blood specimens from patients accurately and safely. This involves proper patient identification, selecting the correct venipuncture site, using appropriate equipment, and ensuring the integrity of the collected sample for diagnostic testing. Their role is vital for accurate laboratory results.

Why is patient identification crucial before phlebotomy?

Answer: To ensure the right patient receives the right test

Patient identification is paramount in phlebotomy to prevent medical errors and ensure patient safety. Verifying the patient's identity against the test requisition ensures that the correct blood samples are collected from the intended individual for the specific tests ordered. Misidentification can lead to incorrect diagnoses and treatments.

What is the best way to avoid infection during blood collection?

Answer: Wearing gloves and using aseptic technique

Wearing gloves and consistently using aseptic technique are the most effective ways to prevent infection during blood collection. Gloves protect both the patient and the phlebotomist from bloodborne pathogens, while aseptic technique minimizes the introduction of microorganisms into the puncture site or the blood sample. This prevents healthcare-associated infections.

How should a phlebotomist respond if a patient feels faint?

Answer: Stop the procedure and provide care

If a patient feels faint or shows signs of syncope during a blood draw, the phlebotomist must immediately stop the procedure and prioritize the patient's safety. This involves removing the needle, applying pressure to the site, and assisting the patient to a safe position (e.g., lying down) to prevent injury from falling. Providing care and monitoring their condition is essential.

Which vein is commonly used for venipuncture?

Answer: Median cubital vein

The median cubital vein, located in the antecubital fossa (inner elbow area), is the most commonly used and preferred site for venipuncture. It is typically large, well-anchored, and easily accessible, making it ideal for drawing blood with minimal discomfort and risk of complications.

Why is it important to label blood specimens immediately?

Answer: To prevent specimen identification errors

Labeling blood specimens immediately after collection, at the patient's bedside, is critical to prevent misidentification errors. This ensures that each sample is correctly matched to the patient from whom it was drawn and the tests ordered, maintaining the integrity of the diagnostic process and preventing potentially dangerous mix-ups.

What action should be taken if a hematoma forms?

Answer: Apply pressure and stop the draw

If a hematoma (a bruise caused by blood leaking out of the vein) begins to form during venipuncture, the phlebotomist should immediately stop the blood draw and apply firm pressure to the site. This helps to minimize the size of the hematoma and reduce patient discomfort. Continuing the draw would worsen the condition.

How should sharps be disposed of?

Answer: Place in sharps container immediately

Sharps, such as needles and lancets, must be disposed of immediately after use into a designated puncture-resistant sharps container. This practice prevents needlestick injuries to healthcare workers and others, which can transmit bloodborne pathogens. Recapping needles is dangerous and should be avoided.

Why is informed consent important in phlebotomy?

Answer: To ensure patient agrees and understands the procedure

Informed consent in phlebotomy means ensuring the patient understands the procedure, its purpose, potential risks, and has voluntarily agreed to it. This respects patient autonomy and is a legal and ethical requirement, confirming they are aware of what will happen and have given permission for the blood draw.