When a serum separation tube (SST) is collected, which of the following actions should the phlebotomist take to ensure optimal test results?

Choice A Reason:
Submitting laboratory results to the representative for workers' compensation is generally not a violation of patient privacy. This action is often necessary as part of the claims process and is typically done with the patient's consent or as mandated by law.

Choice B Reason:
Discussing laboratory results with a patient's partner without the patient's explicit consent is a violation of patient privacy. Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in healthcare, and disclosing health information to unauthorized individuals, including family members, breaches that confidentiality.

Choice C Reason:
Providing diagnosis codes to a patient's insurance company is a standard procedure and is not considered a violation of patient privacy. This information is necessary for the insurance company to process claims and provide coverage for medical services.

Choice D Reason:
Printing a patient's full name on the specimen label is standard practice and does not violate patient privacy. This is done to ensure that the specimen is correctly identified and matched to the patient, which is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Choice A Reason:
Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic used for skin disinfection before and after surgery. It has a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, but it is not the preferred choice for capillary blood collection due to the potential interference with certain laboratory tests. Povidone-iodine needs to be completely dried to avoid hemolysis of the sample, which can affect test results.

Choice B Reason:
Hand sanitizer is generally used for hand hygiene and not for the disinfection of the site for blood specimen collection. While it is effective in killing germs on the skin, it contains emollients and gelling agents that can contaminate the blood sample and interfere with laboratory tests.

Choice C Reason:
70% isopropyl alcohol is the most commonly used disinfectant for aseptic technique in capillary blood collection. It is effective against a broad range of microorganisms and evaporates quickly, leaving no residue that could contaminate the sample. It is important to allow the alcohol to dry completely before performing the puncture to prevent stinging and sample dilution.

Choice D Reason:
A 10% chlorine bleach solution is not typically used for skin disinfection in blood collection due to its harshness and potential to cause skin irritation and damage. It is more commonly used for disinfecting surfaces and equipment in healthcare settings.