A clinical medical assistant is assigned to perform a routine venipuncture. Which of the following items should the assistant ensure is in the room prior to beginning the procedure?

A. Bevel up with a 45° angle: A 45° angle is too steep for venipuncture; this angle is typically used for intramuscular injections.
B. Bevel down with a 45° angle: Bevel down is incorrect for venipuncture as it increases the risk of the needle piercing through the vein.
C. Bevel up with a 15° angle: This is the correct technique for venipuncture. The needle should be inserted at a 15° to 30° angle, with the bevel facing up to ensure smooth entry into the vein and minimize discomfort.
D. Bevel down with a 15° angle: Bevel down is not recommended for venipuncture because it can cause the needle to catch on the vein wall, increasing the risk of injury or complications.

A. Urine specimen volume is 6 mL: A volume of 6 mL is generally sufficient for routine urinalysis, so this would not cause rejection.
B. Urine specimen temperature is 23° C (73.4° F): This temperature is within an acceptable range for a urine specimen that has been properly stored, so it would not cause rejection.
C. Urine specimen container is missing a preservative. Missing a preservative in the container can compromise the integrity of the specimen, leading to rejection.
D. Urine specimen is amber and turbid: Amber color and turbidity may indicate an abnormality, but they are not causes for specimen rejection in routine urinalysis.