A phlebotomist is planning to collect a specimen to measure a patient's serum cortisol level. Which of the following factors should the phlebotomist consider?

Choice A reason:
The date of birth is a common identifier, but it is not unique to an individual, as multiple patients may share the same birth date. While it is useful in conjunction with other identifiers, on its own, it does not provide a definitive identification.

Choice B reason:
The record number, often referred to as the medical record number, is a unique identifier assigned to each patient within a healthcare system. It is used to track patient information across different visits and services, making it the most reliable standalone identifier if the patient's name is not available.

Choice C reason:
An address can change over time and may not be unique, especially in large apartment buildings or for patients who are homeless or transient. It is also not specific enough to reliably identify a patient, as multiple individuals can reside at the same address.

Choice D reason:
The social security number is a unique identifier, but due to privacy concerns and the risk of identity theft, it is not the preferred method for patient identification in healthcare settings. Additionally, not all patients may have a social security number, such as non-residents or newborns.

Choice A Reason:
Contacting the physician by paging or calling right away is the most appropriate action when critical values are confirmed on a laboratory test. Critical values are defined as those that indicate the patient is in danger of death unless treatment is initiated immediately. Immediate notification of the responsible licensed caregiver is required so that appropriate clinical action can be taken for the patient. This is a standard procedure compliant with CLIA regulation 493.1109(f) and is essential for patient safety.

Choice B Reason:
Leaving a message at the physician's office number is not an adequate response to confirmed critical values. Messages can be overlooked or not checked until the next business day, which could delay necessary urgent medical interventions.

Choice C Reason:
Calling the physician's office on the next business day is not acceptable when dealing with critical values. The urgency of critical results requires immediate action, and waiting until the next business day could result in significant harm or death to the patient.

Choice D Reason:
Faxing the results to the physician's office with a stat fax cover is not sufficient for immediate communication of critical values. While the fax may indicate urgency, there is no guarantee that the fax will be seen immediately by the physician or their staff. Direct communication through paging or calling ensures that the critical information is relayed without delay.