Which of the following parameters should a phlebotomist consider when selecting a blood collection method?
Patient condition, patient age, blood volume required
Patient height, patient gender, patient medications
Ordering physician, number of tests ordered, diagnosis
Time of day, timing of specimen, test status
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
The patient's condition is a critical factor as it can influence the ease of blood collection and the choice of collection site. For example, a dehydrated patient may have less accessible veins. Patient age is also important; pediatric and geriatric patients may require different approaches due to vein size and fragility. The blood volume required for testing must be considered to ensure sufficient sample size without compromising patient safety, adhering to guidelines that limit blood collection to a certain percentage of the patient's total blood volume.
Choice B Reason:
While patient height and gender may influence the choice of blood collection site, they are not as critical as the factors listed in choice A. Patient medications are important to consider, as some medications may affect coagulation or the integrity of the sample.
Choice C Reason:
The ordering physician's preferences may be considered, but they are not a primary factor in the method of collection. The number of tests ordered and the diagnosis can influence the volume of blood needed but are secondary to the patient's condition and safety considerations.
Choice D Reason:
The time of day and the timing of the specimen collection can be important for certain tests that are time-sensitive or influenced by diurnal variations. The test status, whether routine or stat, may affect the urgency of collection but not necessarily the method of collection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Prepping the site with povidone iodine is not typically associated with hemoconcentration. Povidone iodine is used as an antiseptic to clean the skin before venipuncture to prevent infection. While it's important to allow it to dry to avoid sample contamination, it does not cause hemoconcentration.
Choice B Reason:
Leaving the tourniquet in place for more than 2 minutes can lead to hemoconcentration. A tourniquet is applied to engorge the veins, making them easier to puncture. However, prolonged application can result in fluid being forced out of the vein into the tissue, increasing the concentration of cells and larger molecules in the blood. This can affect certain laboratory test results by artificially increasing the levels of cellular components.
Choice C Reason:
Not refrigerating the specimen within 30 minutes does not cause hemoconcentration. However, it can affect the stability of certain analytes in the blood sample. Refrigeration is necessary for preserving the integrity of certain components of the blood until analysis, but it is unrelated to the concentration of cells within the sample at the time of collection.
Choice D Reason:
Removing the needle before the tourniquet is released does not cause hemoconcentration. This action might lead to other complications, such as hematoma formation, but it does not affect the concentration of cellular elements in the collected sample.
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.
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