30 Questions
Where should you label specimens?
In front of the patient
What should you use to write on the label?
Pen or marker
What information should be included on the label?
Patient's full name, date of birth, date, time, and medical number
Why should you avoid wrinkles or creases on the label?
To prevent the scanner from reading the label
What should you do after applying pressure to the collection site?
Place a bandage or tape and gauze
Why is it important to check the patient's identifiers after labeling?
To verify the patient's identity
How should you hold the tube when labeling?
With the label facing the right direction
Why should you not let someone else label your specimens?
To ensure accountability
What should you do with the label if there are more tubes than labels?
Create a new label
What should you do after collecting blood?
Apply pressure to the collection site
What is the primary purpose of using a pressure bandage?
To promote hemostasis and help prevent bruising
What type of bandage is recommended for older adult patients?
Self-adhering bandage
Why should you observe the patient's face during a blood collection?
To monitor for color changes or excessive sweating
What should you do when it appears that the patient is not experiencing any complications?
Leave the patient alone and check on them periodically
What is a potential hazard of leaving a needle cap in a child's bed?
Choking hazard
What should you do in an outpatient setting to reduce tripping hazards?
Clear the area of all garbage
Why should you use self-adhering bandages on arms with a large amount of hair?
To avoid painful removal of the bandage
What should you do if the patient has difficulty moving after a blood collection?
Provide assistance as needed to help keep the patient safe
What should you check for when observing the patient's body during a blood collection?
Any signs of complication
What should you do with the patient's bed rails in an inpatient setting?
Raise them to prevent falls
It is acceptable to use a pencil to write on the label.
False
A label can be placed on the tube before the patient has been identified.
False
The label should cover the entire stopper of the tube.
False
After blood collection, the patient should be left unattended.
False
The direction of the label on the tube is not important.
False
The type of dressing used for blood collection is determined by the patient's condition.
True
A pressure bandage should be applied loosely to prevent bruising.
False
Self-adhering bandages are recommended for pediatric patients with a large amount of hair.
True
When observing the patient's body, it is only necessary to check for color changes or excessive sweating.
False
In an outpatient setting, it is not necessary to clear the area of garbage to reduce tripping hazards.
False
Study Notes
Specimen Labeling
- Label specimens in front of the patient, before leaving the room or having the patient leave the area
- Place labels on all specimens collected, do not let someone else label your specimens
- Use pen or marker (no pencil) to write patient's full name, date of birth, date, time, and medical number on the label
- Ensure any additional information on the label (time, initials) is written legibly
- Use the 24-hour clock when writing the time on labels, unless otherwise required by the facility
- Ensure labels face the same direction and do not cover the stopper
- Place the label on the preprinted label, avoiding wrinkles or creases, especially on barcoded labels
- Double-check labels with patient's identifiers or ID band to ensure all information matches
Postprocedure Care
- After blood collection, check patient's status and ensure adequate pressure has been applied to the collection site to stop bleeding and prevent bruising
- Use a bandage, self-adhering bandage, or tape and gauze to dress the site, choosing the best type for the patient's condition
- Apply a pressure bandage to promote hemostasis and prevent bruising, using adequate gauze padding and pulling the tape or bandage firmly
- Observe the patient for complications, looking for color changes, excessive sweating, labored breathing, and changes in speech or behavior
- Assist patients with difficulty in movement, and ensure the area is clear of garbage and tripping hazards before leaving
Specimen Labeling
- Label specimens in front of the patient, before leaving the room or having the patient leave the area
- Place labels on all specimens collected, do not let someone else label your specimens
- Use pen or marker (no pencil) to write patient's full name, date of birth, date, time, and medical number on the label
- Ensure any additional information on the label (time, initials) is written legibly
- Use the 24-hour clock when writing the time on labels, unless otherwise required by the facility
- Ensure labels face the same direction and do not cover the stopper
- Place the label on the preprinted label, avoiding wrinkles or creases, especially on barcoded labels
- Double-check labels with patient's identifiers or ID band to ensure all information matches
Postprocedure Care
- After blood collection, check patient's status and ensure adequate pressure has been applied to the collection site to stop bleeding and prevent bruising
- Use a bandage, self-adhering bandage, or tape and gauze to dress the site, choosing the best type for the patient's condition
- Apply a pressure bandage to promote hemostasis and prevent bruising, using adequate gauze padding and pulling the tape or bandage firmly
- Observe the patient for complications, looking for color changes, excessive sweating, labored breathing, and changes in speech or behavior
- Assist patients with difficulty in movement, and ensure the area is clear of garbage and tripping hazards before leaving
Learn about the importance of proper labeling and post-procedure care in phlebotomy, including labeling specimens in front of the patient and writing necessary information.
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