A phlebotomist finds a patient who is unresponsive and not breathing. In which of the following positions should the phlebotomist place the patient before initiating CPR?
Supine
Semi-Fowler's
Prone
Side-lying
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
The supine position, where the patient lies flat on their back with the face upward, is the correct position for initiating CPR. This position allows for proper chest compressions and airway management, which are critical components of CPR.
Choice B Reason:
The Semi-Fowler's position, where the patient is partially sitting up with the head of the bed raised to 30-45 degrees, is not suitable for CPR. This position would make it difficult to perform effective chest compressions.
Choice C Reason:
The prone position, where the patient lies flat on their stomach, is not appropriate for CPR. Chest compressions cannot be effectively delivered in this position, and it would also complicate airway management.
Choice D Reason:
The side-lying position is not appropriate for CPR. While this position can be used for an unconscious patient who is breathing normally to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration, it is not suitable for CPR, which requires the patient to be on their back.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Turning the patient's hand palm down is not typically recommended as it can make the veins less accessible and may cause discomfort to the patient. The veins on the back of the hand are more superficial and can be more easily accessed when the hand is palm up.
Choice B reason:
Placing the patient in a supine position is not necessary for all venipuncture procedures and is usually reserved for patients who have a history of fainting or for those who are already lying down due to their medical condition. It is not a position that specifically increases comfort during the procedure.
Choice C reason:
Bending the patient's arm at the elbow can actually hinder the blood draw process as it may cause the veins to be less prominent and can lead to discomfort or movement during the venipuncture, potentially causing injury or an unsuccessful draw.
Choice D reason:
Positioning the patient's hand at waist level is the correct choice as it allows the arm to be in a natural, relaxed position, which can help the veins to be more prominent and accessible. It also helps in reducing the patient's anxiety as the arm is not in an awkward or strained position.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Heparin is an anticoagulant, not a clot activator. It works by inhibiting thrombin and preventing the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, thus preventing clot formation. It is commonly found in green-top tubes and is suitable for collecting plasma samples for tests like electrolyte levels and coagulation studies.
Choice B reason:
Oxalate is also an anticoagulant that prevents clotting by precipitating calcium. It is not used to promote clot formation but rather to maintain a blood sample in a non-coagulated state for various tests.
Choice C reason:
Citrate functions similarly to heparin and oxalate as an anticoagulant. It chelates calcium ions in the blood, inhibiting the coagulation process. Citrate is often used in blue-top tubes and is ideal for collecting plasma samples for coagulation studies.
Choice D reason:
Silica is a clot activator. It is commonly used in serum separator tubes (SSTs) with a gold or red speckled top. The silica particles provide a surface for the rapid formation of the clot, allowing for the separation of serum from the blood cells. This is essential when serum is needed for testing.
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