What is the most important step in the phlebotomy procedure? ...

[sc00by25]

What is the most important step in the phlebotomy procedure?
 
  a. Getting enough blood for all tests
  b. Getting the needle in the vein
  c. Proper patient identification
  d. Drawing tubes with no anticoagulant before the lavender tube

Question 2

At what temperature should blood samples be transported?
 
  a. At room temperature
  b. At 37 C
  c. On ice
  d. Depends on the test requested

[macagnavarro]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Proper patient identification is critical and the most important step in performing phlebotomy. Failure to obtain and verify correct identification could result in serious consequences, possibly even life-threatening consequences, for perhaps two patients.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Blood samples for most tests can be safely transported at room temperature. However, specific tests require special transport temperatures, either on ice or at 37 C. These protocols must be followed to obtain valid results.