If a patient's name is not located on the requisition order, which of the following is the next acceptable way to identify the patient in the hospital?
Date of birth
Record number
Address
Social security number
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The light green tube typically contains lithium heparin and is used for plasma determinations in chemistry. It is not suitable for coagulation studies, such as PT, because heparin is an anticoagulant that would interfere with the test results.
Choice B reason:
The lavender tube contains EDTA, which is an anticoagulant that binds calcium. While it is commonly used for complete blood counts (CBC) and other hematology tests, it is not appropriate for coagulation studies because the binding of calcium would affect the clotting process required for a PT test.
Choice C reason:
The royal blue tube can come with different additives or be additive-free, depending on the color of the closure. It is primarily used for trace element testing, toxicology, and nutrient determinations. The additives in a royal blue tube could potentially contaminate the sample and interfere with the PT test.
Choice D reason:
The light blue tube contains sodium citrate, which is the appropriate anticoagulant for coagulation studies like PT. Sodium citrate works by binding calcium in the blood, preventing clotting. The PT test measures the time it takes for a clot to form after re-calcification, making the light blue tube the correct choice for this test.
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