According to the Joint Commission, which of the following should a phlebotomist use as a unique identifier when establishing correct inpatient identification?
Patient's room number
Patient's bed label
Patient's inpatient chart
Patient's verbal confirmation
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
A patient's room number is not considered a unique identifier by the Joint Commission standards. Room numbers can change if patients are moved, and they do not reliably identify an individual.
Choice B Reason:
A patient's bed label is also not a unique identifier. Bed labels can be switched, and similar to room numbers, they are not specific to the individual patient.
Choice C Reason:
A patient's inpatient chart typically contains multiple unique identifiers, such as the patient's name, an assigned identification number, date of birth, or other person-specific identifiers. These are considered acceptable by the Joint Commission for verifying patient identity, ensuring that the service or treatment is intended for that individual.
Choice D Reason:
Patient's verbal confirmation alone is not sufficient for establishing correct inpatient identification. While it can be used as one method of identification, it should be supplemented with another identifier to meet the Joint Commission's requirement of using at least two patient identifiers.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots, a process needed to stop bleeding. This condition is not caused by shaking a blood collection tube; it is an inherited disorder typically caused by a mutation in one of the clotting factor genes.
Choice B Reason:
Hemoconcentration refers to an increase in the concentration of cells and solids in the blood, usually resulting from a loss of plasma. While this can occur due to various reasons, such as dehydration, it is not caused by shaking a blood collection tube. Shaking a tube does not change the ratio of cells to plasma in the blood.
Choice C Reason:
Hemolysis is the rupture of red blood cells, which can occur when a blood sample is handled roughly, such as by excessive shaking. This can cause the cells to break open and release their contents into the plasma, which can interfere with laboratory tests and lead to inaccurate results.
Choice D Reason:
Hemostasis is the process by which the body stops bleeding, which involves the clotting of blood. This process is not caused by shaking a blood collection tube. Hemostasis is a complex process that involves blood vessels, platelets, and clotting factors.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asking another phlebotomist to obtain the specimen is a prudent step after multiple unsuccessful attempts. It can reduce the patient's discomfort and anxiety. A fresh perspective from another professional might increase the chances of a successful draw, especially in challenging situations like small, fragile veins often found in diabetic patients.
Choice B reason:
Performing the draw on a foot is not typically recommended due to the increased risk of infection and complications, especially in diabetic patients who may have reduced sensation and slower healing in their extremities. This option should only be considered when other more proximal sites have been deemed unsuitable.
Choice C reason:
Repeating the draws until successful is not advisable as it can cause undue stress to the patient and increase the risk of hematoma or vein damage. It is essential to minimize the number of attempts to prevent patient discomfort and potential complications.
Choice D reason:
Performing the draw on a leg is another option that is generally avoided unless absolutely necessary, due to similar reasons as drawing from a foot—risk of infection and complications. Additionally, it can be an uncomfortable position for the patient.
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