In which of the following locations should a phlebotomist directly dispose of a contaminated microscope slide?
A: Specimen bag
B: Biohazard bag
C: Red sharps container
D: Medical waste container
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
A specimen bag is typically used for transporting specimens from the collection site to the laboratory. It is not designed for the disposal of contaminated items such as microscope slides. These bags are not puncture-resistant and do not provide the necessary protection against sharps injuries or contamination.
Choice B reason:
A biohazard bag is used for disposing of items that have been contaminated with potentially infectious materials. While it is suitable for materials like gloves, tissues, or any other items that do not have sharp edges, it is not the appropriate choice for glass slides, which can puncture the bag and pose a risk to handlers.
Choice C reason:
A red sharps container is specifically designed for the disposal of sharps waste, which includes any device that can puncture or cut skin, such as needles, syringes, lancets, and contaminated glass such as microscope slides. These containers are rigid, puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and usually marked with a biohazard symbol, making them the correct choice for disposing of contaminated microscope slides.
Choice D reason:
A medical waste container is a broad term that can refer to various types of containers used for medical waste. However, not all medical waste containers are suitable for sharps disposal. Unless the medical waste container is designed like a red sharps container, it may not be safe for disposing of glass slides.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Reporting the needlestick to the supervisor is an important step in the post-exposure protocol, but it is not the first action that should be taken. The immediate priority is to address the potential exposure to pathogens by cleansing the wound.
Choice B Reason:
Completing the blood draw is not the appropriate first action after a needlestick injury. The phlebotomist's health and safety take precedence, and the procedure should be paused to address the injury.
Choice C Reason:
Washing the area with soap and water is the first and most critical action to take after an accidental needlestick. This helps to remove any blood or pathogens that may have been introduced to the wound site. It is essential to do this immediately to reduce the risk of infection.
Choice D Reason:
Seeking immediate treatment is a necessary step, but it follows the initial cleansing of the wound. After washing the area, the phlebotomist should then report the incident and seek medical advice to assess the need for further treatment, such as post-exposure prophylaxis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
When performing a capillary blood collection, such as a fingerstick, the lancet should be positioned perpendicular to the fingerprint grooves. This orientation helps to ensure that the incision is made across the ridges of the fingerprint, which can facilitate a better blood flow and make it easier to collect an adequate sample without needing to squeeze the finger excessively, which could hemolyze the sample.
Choice B reason:
Positioning the lancet parallel to the nail bed is not recommended because it can result in a cut that runs along the length of the fingerprint grooves, which may not bleed as freely and could also be more painful for the patient.
Choice C reason:
Using the lancet along the lateral portion of the first digit is not part of the standard aseptic technique protocol for capillary blood collection. The first digit, or thumb, has a pulse and should generally be avoided because it can be more sensitive and is more prone to bruising.
Choice D reason:
The medial portion of the fifth digit, or the little finger, is also not a recommended site for capillary blood collection with a lancet. The little finger is typically smaller and may not provide an adequate site for blood collection, and similar to the thumb, it can be more sensitive and prone to injury.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.