Which of the following information should a phlebotomist document during a glucose tolerance test?

Choice A Reason:
Disposing of contaminated materials is a part of standard infection control practices. While it is important to dispose of materials that may be contaminated with blood or bodily fluids properly, this action is not specific to the aseptic technique used during venipuncture.

Choice B Reason:
Performing hand hygiene once daily is not sufficient for maintaining aseptic technique. Aseptic technique requires hand hygiene before and after each patient contact, especially before procedures like venipuncture to prevent the transmission of pathogens.

Choice C Reason:
Completing quality control procedures is an essential part of laboratory practice and patient safety but is not directly related to the aseptic technique of venipuncture. Quality control ensures the accuracy and reliability of test results rather than preventing infection.

Choice D Reason:
Cleansing the skin with sodium hypochlorite, or a similar disinfectant, is a critical step in aseptic technique for venipuncture. This action reduces the microbial load on the skin, thereby minimizing the risk of introducing pathogens into the bloodstream during needle insertion.

Choice A reason:
A sodium level test is important for managing and monitoring a patient's electrolyte balance, particularly in critical care settings. However, a DNR order indicates that the patient has chosen not to undergo CPR, not necessarily that their condition is the most critical at the moment. Therefore, while important, it may not be the most urgent sample to process.

Choice B reason:
Postoperative monitoring of hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is crucial for detecting possible hemorrhage and ensuring proper recovery. However, unless there is an immediate concern for acute blood loss or other complications, these tests may not be as urgent as a stat test from the emergency room.

Choice C reason:
A stat potassium level is typically ordered when there is an urgent need to assess a patient's potassium due to conditions that can rapidly affect heart rhythm and muscle function. In the emergency room setting, where patients often present with acute and life-threatening conditions, stat tests are prioritized to provide rapid results that can influence immediate clinical decisions.

Choice D reason:
Peak antibiotic levels are measured to ensure therapeutic efficacy and to avoid toxicity. While important for managing a patient's treatment, especially for those who are NPO (nothing by mouth), it may not be as time-sensitive as a stat test required for an acute emergency.