Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of red blood cells (RBCs)?
What is the main component of plasma?
Why is correct patient identification critical in phlebotomy?
What is the distinction between plasma and serum?
Signup and view all the answers
What precaution must be taken by phlebotomists to protect against infections?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the purpose of cleaning the puncture site with 70% alcohol before blood collection?
Signup and view all the answers
Why should Betadine not be used to clean the phlebotomy area?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be done with needles after use in phlebotomy?
Signup and view all the answers
In which situation is skin puncture preferred for blood collection?
Signup and view all the answers
Which item is typically NOT used during a skin puncture for blood collection?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Blood Composition
- Blood consists of approximately 45% formed elements: red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.
- RBCs contain hemoglobin that binds oxygen, while WBCs protect against infections.
- Platelets are primarily involved in stopping bleeding.
- The liquid portion of blood is around 55%, with about 90% as water and 10% as proteins (albumin, globulin, fibrinogen), carbohydrates, vitamins, hormones, enzymes, lipids, and salts.
- Blood without anticoagulants is called serum post-coagulation and lacks fibrinogen.
Phlebotomy Techniques
- Proper patient identification is crucial; hospital patients identified via wristbands, outpatients via verbal confirmation and requisition slips.
- Blood specimens require labeling with the patient's full name, hospital ID number, location, time, date, and phlebotomist's initials for accurate tracking.
- Gloves must be worn at all times to prevent bloodborne infections (HBV/HIV) and hands should be washed between patients.
- The puncture site should be cleaned with 70% alcohol; Betadine is not recommended due to potential test interference.
- Sharp instruments and needles must be disposed of in puncture-resistant biohazard containers; recapping is prohibited.
Skin Puncture
- Skin puncture, or microsampling, is often used in specific patient categories:
- Infants under 6 months due to limited blood volume and risks associated with venipuncture.
- Young children when only small blood samples are needed, typically collected from the finger.
- Adults with poor vein visibility or those receiving IV infusions may also require finger punctures.
Required Reagents & Equipment
- 70% alcohol for cleaning the puncture site.
- Sterile gauze for pressure and cleaning.
- Skin puncture device (sterile blood lancet) for drawing blood.
- Capillary tubes and Microtainers for specimen collection.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge on blood collection methods including venipuncture and skin puncture. This quiz also covers the composition of blood, detailing the roles of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Perfect for students in healthcare or related fields.