Phlebotomy Patient Identification and Communication Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of labeling blood collection tubes at the bedside immediately after collection?

Answer: To prevent specimen mislabeling and ensure patient safety

Bedside labeling immediately after collection is the most critical step to prevent mislabeling errors, which are a leading cause of transfusion reactions and diagnostic mistakes.

When drawing blood from a pediatric patient, which communication approach is most appropriate?

Answer: Use age-appropriate language and explain what will happen in simple terms

Age-appropriate communication helps reduce fear and gain cooperation; honest explanations build trust while giving false reassurances can harm the therapeutic relationship.

Which minimum information must be on a properly labeled blood specimen tube?

Answer: Patient name, date of birth, and collection date/time

At minimum, a specimen label must include the patient's full name, date of birth (or medical record number), and the date and time of collection to ensure traceability.

A patient tells the phlebotomist they have a latex allergy. What should the phlebotomist do?

Answer: Switch to latex-free gloves and supplies immediately

Latex allergies require immediate substitution of all latex-containing equipment (gloves, tourniquets) with latex-free alternatives to prevent potentially life-threatening reactions.

What is the correct action when a requisition order and the patient wristband do not match?

Answer: Do not perform the draw; notify the nurse immediately to resolve the discrepancy

Any discrepancy between the requisition and the wristband must be resolved before specimen collection to prevent wrong-patient errors.

How should a phlebotomist handle a patient who is hard of hearing during the identification process?

Answer: Write the questions down or use visual communication aids

Written communication or other assistive methods ensure accurate patient identification when verbal communication is not effective.