Phlebotomy Test Phlebotomy Patient Identification and Communication 2

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

To prevent specimen mislabeling and ensure patient safety

Answer

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.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Switch to latex-free gloves and supplies immediately

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Phlebotomy Practice Test

Phlebotomy Practice Test

Phlebotomy Test Phlebotomy Patient Identification and Communication 2