Hematology I: Basic Phlebotomy

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Questions and Answers

What is the most common complication during blood collection?

Ecchymosis (correct)

Infection

Hematoma

Syncope

Which of the following situations warrants the use of capillary puncture?

Traditional venipuncture is preferred

The patient is in a stable state

Patient has severe clotting tendencies (correct)

Veins are highly visible and accessible

Why should the needle be withdrawn if a patient faints during the procedure?

To avoid causing ecchymosis

To prevent further blood loss (correct)

To ensure patient comfort

To minimize the risk of infection

What is the primary purpose of applying a tourniquet during venipuncture?

To restrict venous blood flow for better vein visibility Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tools is used specifically for capillary puncture?

Lancet Signup and view all the answers

What does the term phlebotomy literally mean?

To cut a vein Signup and view all the answers

What is a phlebotomist primarily trained to do?

Collect blood Signup and view all the answers

Which procedure involves collecting blood from a vein using a needle?

Venipuncture Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a quality a phlebotomist should possess?

Financial expertise Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes arteries in the vascular system?

They have thick walls to withstand high pressure. Signup and view all the answers

What is the vascular system responsible for?

Circulating blood Signup and view all the answers

Which vein is the preferred choice for routine venipuncture in the antecubital area?

Median cubital vein Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of performing an arterial puncture?

Collecting blood for blood gas testing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following veins is considered the second choice for venipuncture?

Cephalic vein Signup and view all the answers

Which term refers to blood being collected through a puncture made with a lancet?

Capillary puncture Signup and view all the answers

Which quality is particularly important for a phlebotomist when interacting with clients?

Communication skills Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of capillaries in the vascular system?

They allow for the exchange of substances. Signup and view all the answers

When performing venipuncture, which site should be avoided due to potential complications?

Areas with hematomas Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if IV infusion is in both arms during blood draw?

Draw blood below the IV line after stopping fluids for 2-3 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of venipuncture, what is the last choice vein mentioned?

Basilic vein Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the bright red color of arteries?

They are rich in oxygen. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Phlebotomy Overview

Derived from Greek "phleb" (vein) and "tomia" (to cut), meaning "to cut a vein."
Involves the process of collecting blood through various techniques.

Phlebotomist Role

A trained professional in blood collection techniques.
Essential for blood collection in medical settings.

Main Phlebotomy Procedures

Capillary Puncture:
- Also known as skin puncture.
- Blood collected via a lancet or similar device.
Venipuncture:
- Known as venesection.
- Blood collected through a needle inserted into a vein.
Arterial Puncture:
- Blood collected from an artery.
- Not commonly used for routine collection—special training required.

Professional Qualities of Phlebotomists

Essential traits include professionalism, ethical behavior, and strong communication skills.
Must display integrity, compassion, dependability, and good bedside manner.

Vascular System

Comprises arteries, veins, and capillaries.
Arteries: Bright red, oxygen-rich, thick walls to withstand high pressure.
Veins: Dark or bluish red, thinner walls, low pressure.
Capillaries: Microscopic, single-cell thickness for substance exchange.

Antecubital Area

Known as elbow pit; key site for venipuncture.
Contains major veins: median cubital (preferred), cephalic (second choice), and basilic (last choice).

Types of Antecubital Veins

H-shaped Distribution:
- Most common (70% of population).
- Median cubital vein is the primary venipuncture site.
M-shaped Distribution:
- Variations of intermediate antebrachial veins offering alternative sites.

Alternative Venipuncture Sites

Veins on the back of the hand, wrist, and lower extremities (may require physician consent due to risks).

Sites to Avoid for Venipuncture

Areas with hematoma, burns, scars, edema, or previous mastectomy.
Avoid sites of IV infusion; use distal to the IV line after stopping fluids for a few minutes.

Complications in Blood Collection

Ecchymosis (Bruise): Caused by fluid leakage into tissues during blood collection.
Syncope (Fainting): Withdraw needle promptly if the patient faints.
Failure to Draw Blood: Can occur due to various factors including vein condition.

Capillary Puncture Procedure

Utilizes lancets and microcollection tubes to obtain small blood volumes.
Preferred when veins are inaccessible or in conditions like chemotherapy.

Venipuncture Techniques

Tourniquet:
- Commonly made of rubber or Velcro, applied to restrict venous blood flow.
- Should be placed 2-4 inches above the puncture site and not left for extended periods to avoid complications.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamentals of phlebotomy techniques, including skin puncture and venipuncture practices. Designed for students in Hematology I, it aims to reinforce knowledge on essential techniques and procedures in blood collection. Prepare to test your understanding of the vital skills required in the medical technology field.