Which of the following needle gauge ranges should a phlebotomist select when performing a venipuncture for blood donation?
16- to 18-gauge
19- to 21-gauge
22- to 24-gauge
25- to 28-gauge
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
For blood donation, a 16- to 18-gauge needle is typically used because it is large enough to allow the rapid flow of blood without causing hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells). The larger gauge needle also helps in minimizing the time the donor has to spend during the donation process. Using a needle that is too small could slow down the blood flow and potentially damage the blood cells, which is not ideal for the recipient of the blood donation.
Choice B Reason:
A 19- to 21-gauge needle is commonly used for routine venipuncture but is not ideal for blood donation. These needles are smaller than the 16- to 18-gauge needles and would not facilitate the quick collection of the volume of blood typically required for a donation. They are more suitable for collecting blood samples for testing rather than for donation purposes.
Choice C Reason:
A 22- to 24-gauge needle is even smaller and is often used for patients with smaller veins, such as children or elderly patients. These needles would not be appropriate for blood donation as they could significantly slow the blood flow and increase the donation time, which could be uncomfortable for the donor.
Choice D Reason:
A 25- to 28-gauge needle is the smallest size commonly used in medical practice and is suitable for patients with extremely small or fragile veins. These needles would be impractical for blood donation due to their small size, which would not allow for the efficient flow of blood required for a donation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While informing the patient of the procedure is important, it is not the immediate next step after greeting. The technician should first ensure the patient's safety and comfort before proceeding with the details of the blood draw.
Choice B Reason:
Asking if the patient has a latex allergy is crucial as it directly pertains to patient safety. Many medical supplies, including gloves and tourniquets used during phlebotomy, may contain latex, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Identifying an allergy before any contact ensures that the technician can take necessary precautions to prevent an allergic reaction.
Choice C Reason:
Stating the technician's name to the patient helps build rapport but is not as critical as ensuring the patient's safety. It is a part of good communication and patient care practices but should follow after confirming any potential allergies or other immediate health concerns.
Choice D Reason:
Asking the patient which arm they prefer for the blood draw is a part of the procedure that involves patient preference and comfort. However, this should come after ensuring there are no allergies that could lead to complications during the draw.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Sterile water is not an antiseptic; it does not contain antimicrobial agents. While it can be used to rinse a site, it will not disinfect the area before a venipuncture procedure. Therefore, it is not an appropriate substitute for alcohol in this context.
Choice B Reason:
Antiseptic foam may contain alcohol or other disinfectants. If it is alcohol-free, it could be a suitable alternative. However, without specific information about the ingredients, it cannot be assumed to be an appropriate choice for a patient allergic to alcohol.
Choice C Reason:
Chlorhexidine is a commonly used antiseptic for skin preparation before medical procedures, including venipuncture. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and is an appropriate alternative for patients who have an allergy to alcohol-based antiseptics.
Choice D Reason:
Saline solution is not an antiseptic. It is a sterile solution of sodium chloride in water and does not have antimicrobial properties. Like sterile water, it is not suitable for disinfecting the venipuncture site.
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