1 Blood Collection Foundations and Safety Free Online FlashCards

How should a patient’s identity be confirmed before collection?

Ask the patient to state their full name and another approved identifier, then match both to the order and approved record.

What must happen before proceeding with a patient who can provide consent?

Explain the purpose and basic steps, answer questions, and obtain consent according to facility policy. A patient may decline or ask to stop.

What should you verify from the collection request before starting?

Review the collection request to confirm which specimens are needed and whether there are special instructions.

What qualities make a vein suitable for routine venipuncture?

A straight, stable, readily palpable vein is generally preferable. The median cubital vein is commonly selected.

When should Standard Precautions be applied?

Apply Standard Precautions to every patient, regardless of known infection status.

What kind of needle or lancet is required for each patient?

Use a new sterile, single-use needle or lancet for each patient.

How should you respond if a patient shows signs of faintness?

Stop if needed, protect the patient from falling, and follow the facility’s response procedure.

What should you do after a needlestick or blood exposure?

Promptly wash or flush the exposed area, report the incident immediately, and follow the facility’s urgent evaluation and post-exposure process.

What should you do if the patient’s identifiers do not match the order?

Pause the collection and resolve the mismatch before proceeding. Never guess which identity or order is correct.

Why does the basilic area require particular caution?

Use particular caution in the basilic area because an artery and important nerves lie nearby.

Why should an active infusion site generally be avoided?

Avoid drawing through an active infusion site unless an authorized protocol permits it; the specimen may be diluted or contaminated.

Do gloves replace hand hygiene?

No. Gloves do not replace hand hygiene; perform hand hygiene before preparing the procedure and after removing gloves.