Which of the following items should a phlebotomist recognize as part of the aseptic technique protocol?
Standard precautions
Safety devices
Quality control logs
Disaster emergency plan
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Standard precautions are a set of infection control practices used to prevent transmission of diseases that can be acquired by contact with blood, body fluids, non-intact skin (including rashes), and mucous membranes. These measures are to be applied to all patients, regardless of their diagnosis or presumed infection status. Standard precautions include hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette, safe injection practices, safe handling of potentially contaminated equipment or surfaces in the patient environment, and aseptic technique.
Choice B Reason:
Safety devices, such as needles with engineered sharps injury protections, are designed to prevent needlestick injuries and the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. While they are an important aspect of a phlebotomist's work, they are not specifically part of the aseptic technique protocol. Aseptic technique focuses on preventing contamination of sterile surfaces and materials to prevent infection.
Choice C Reason:
Quality control logs are records that document the performance of equipment and procedures to ensure they meet the required standards. They are essential for maintaining the integrity of laboratory results and ensuring patient safety. However, quality control logs themselves are not a component of the aseptic technique protocol, which is more concerned with the immediate prevention of infection during clinical procedures.
Choice D Reason:
A disaster emergency plan is a comprehensive document outlining the actions to be taken in case of an emergency. This plan is crucial for ensuring safety and continuity of care during unexpected events but is not related to the aseptic technique protocol. Aseptic technique is a method used to prevent infection during medical procedures by maintaining a sterile environment.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The timeline of the individual prior to specimen collection is important for context but is not typically part of the chain of custody documentation. The chain of custody focuses on the handling of the specimen rather than the activities of the individual before the collection.
Choice B Reason:
The identity of each person who handles the specimen is a critical element of the chain of custody. This information ensures that the specimen can be tracked at every stage from collection to analysis, and any potential tampering can be identified and addressed.
Choice C Reason:
While the physical and mental status of the individual may be noted in medical records or police reports, it is not a standard part of the chain of custody for a blood alcohol test. The chain of custody's purpose is to track the specimen, not the condition of the individual.
Choice D Reason:
The condition of the specimen every hour is not required in the chain of custody documentation. What is necessary is the documentation of any changes in the condition of the specimen that could affect the integrity of the results, such as temperature excursions or signs of tampering.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Simply observing the site to see if the hematoma worsens is not an appropriate response. While monitoring the development of a hematoma is part of the process, it is not a proactive measure to address the immediate issue. The phlebotomist must take action to prevent further injury or complication.
Choice B reason:
Asking the patient to apply pressure may be part of the post-venipuncture care, especially after the needle has been removed, to aid in stopping any bleeding. However, this does not address the immediate concern of a developing hematoma during the draw.
Choice C reason:
Releasing the tourniquet and stopping the draw is the correct action to take when a hematoma is observed. This response is in line with the standard procedure for when a complication arises during venipuncture. Stopping the draw helps prevent further blood from pooling and exacerbating the hematoma.
Choice D reason:
While calling for a nurse and assessing the patient's condition is important, especially if the phlebotomist needs assistance or the patient shows signs of distress, it should not be the first action taken. The immediate response should be to address the hematoma by stopping the draw.
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