Phlebotomy Phlebotomy Legal and Ethics Questions and Answers

Question 1

A phlebotomist enters a patient's room and explains they need to draw blood. The patient, who appears competent, silently extends their arm. This is an example of which type of consent?

Accepted Answer

Implied Consent

Answer

Informed Consent

Answer

Expressed Consent

Answer

Minor Consent

Question 2

While on an elevator at the hospital, a phlebotomist discusses a difficult draw they performed on a patient in the ICU, mentioning the patient's name and diagnosis. This action is a violation of which of the following?

Accepted Answer

HIPAA

Answer

The Patient's Bill of Rights

Answer

OSHA regulations

Answer

The Joint Commission standards

Question 3

An adult patient verbally refuses to have their blood drawn, but the phlebotomist proceeds to hold the patient down with the help of a coworker to collect the sample. This phlebotomist could be charged with:

Accepted Answer

Assault and Battery

Answer

Negligence

Answer

Malpractice

Answer

Breach of Confidentiality

Question 4

Which of the following represents a failure to adhere to the phlebotomy 'standard of care'?

Accepted Answer

Attempting to perform a venipuncture on a patient a third time after two unsuccessful attempts.

Answer

Informing the patient about the potential for bruising.

Answer

Asking the patient to state their full name and date of birth.

Answer

Disposing of the used needle in a sharps container immediately after use.

Question 5

A competent adult patient has a legal right to refuse a blood draw, even if the test is ordered by a physician. What is the most appropriate first action for the phlebotomist if a patient refuses the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Respectfully inquire about the reason for refusal, document the refusal, and notify the nursing staff.

Answer

Explain to the patient that the doctor has ordered the test and it must be done.

Answer

Immediately leave the room and report the refusal to the patient's physician.

Answer

Attempt to persuade the patient by explaining the potential negative consequences of refusing.

Question 6

The ethical principle of 'Nonmaleficence' as it applies to phlebotomy is best described as:

Accepted Answer

The duty to 'do no harm' to the patient.

Answer

Ensuring the patient understands and agrees to the procedure.

Answer

Treating all patients fairly and equitably.

Answer

Acting in the best interest of the patient.