During a venipuncture, the needle is in the vein and blood flow is established. When the second tube is attached, blood flow stops. Which of the following actions should the phlebotomist take?

Choice A Reason:
Patient's insurance information is not typically included in the follow-up documentation of a stat result. Insurance information is relevant for billing purposes and does not pertain to the immediate clinical care or the communication of test results.

Choice B Reason:
The room number of the patient might be included in the internal documentation for logistical purposes but is not the primary piece of information required following a verbal report of a stat result. The focus should be on the communication details rather than the location.

Choice C Reason:
The name of the provider contacted is essential information in the follow-up documentation after a verbal report. This ensures that there is a record of who received the information, which is crucial for accountability and continuity of care.

Choice D Reason:
The provider's phone number is not necessary in the follow-up documentation if the name of the provider is already included. The phone number would have been used to make the initial contact, and the key information is the confirmation that the provider was reached and informed of the stat result.

Choice A Reason:
The age of the newborn is important for certain metabolic screenings, as some metabolites may not be present or at measurable levels immediately after birth. However, the requirement for the newborn to be at least 3 days old is not a standard for all blood spot collections for inborn errors of metabolism (IEM). Some screenings are performed within 24 to 48 hours after birth.

Choice B Reason:
While it is important that the circles on the filter paper are adequately filled to ensure there is enough blood for the test, the requirement for them to be at least half filled is not specified in the guidelines. The focus is usually on ensuring the blood spot is of the right size and properly saturated through the filter paper.

Choice C Reason:
The inclusion of the first drop of blood is not typically a requirement. In fact, the first drop is often wiped away to avoid contamination with tissue fluids that could affect the test results. Subsequent drops are used to fill the circles on the filter paper.

Choice D Reason:
The specimen must be completely dried before the test can be processed to prevent degradation or hemolysis of the blood sample. This is a critical step in the preparation of the sample for accurate testing of IEM. The drying process helps preserve the integrity of the metabolites to be analyzed.