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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Holding the two slides at a 90-degree angle is not the correct technique for performing a blood smear. This angle is too steep and would not allow the blood to spread thinly across the slide, which is necessary for creating a quality smear that can be examined under a microscope.
Choice B reason:
Allowing the blood drop to clot slightly before performing the smear is not advisable. Clotting can interfere with the spread of the blood and the formation of a monolayer, which is essential for accurate microscopic examination. The blood should be fresh and anticoagulated to prevent clotting.
Choice C reason:
Holding the slides at a 30-degree angle is the correct technique for performing a blood smear. This angle allows the spreader slide to push the blood drop smoothly across the patient slide, creating a thin, even layer of blood that is ideal for microscopic analysis. The angle, speed, and pressure must be consistent to achieve a quality smear.
Choice D reason:
Allowing the blood drop to clot completely before performing the smear would make it impossible to create a smear. Clotted blood cannot be spread into a thin layer, which is necessary for microscopic examination of the blood cells.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Keeping the patient as upright as possible is not recommended in cases of shock. When a patient is in shock, it is important to lay them down and elevate their legs slightly, unless this position causes pain or further injury. This position helps improve blood flow to the brain.
Choice B Reason:
Providing a cooling blanket is not a standard first aid measure for shock due to a medication reaction. A cooling blanket may be used in cases of hyperthermia or heatstroke to reduce body temperature, but not typically for shock, which requires maintaining normal body temperature and preventing chilling.
Choice C Reason:
Administering oral fluids to a patient in shock is not advisable. During shock, a patient may have an impaired swallowing reflex or be unconscious, increasing the risk of aspiration. It is best to avoid giving anything by mouth until medical personnel arrive.
Choice D Reason:
Maintaining an open airway is crucial for a patient in shock. Ensuring that the airway is clear allows the patient to breathe effectively, which is essential for delivering oxygen to the tissues and organs. If the patient is unconscious or has an altered level of consciousness, the phlebotomist should check for breathing and begin CPR if necessary.
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