Study 1 Phlebotomy Practice and Patient Care with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
What are the core responsibilities of a phlebotomy technician?
A phlebotomy technician collects blood and, when assigned and trained, other specimens; handles and documents them according to procedure; and helps protect patient safety and specimen quality.
What is outside a phlebotomy technician’s role?
The technician supports laboratory testing but does not diagnose patients or independently interpret test results.
How should a technician respond to a task beyond their competency?
Work only within training, demonstrated competency, applicable requirements, and facility policy. Pause and seek guidance if a task is unauthorized or an order is unclear.
How many patient-specific identifiers are required for identification?
Use at least two distinct, patient-specific identifiers, such as full name and date of birth or medical record number.
Why can’t a room or bed number identify a patient?
A room or bed number is not a patient identifier; use distinct information specific to the patient.
How should a technician verify a patient’s identity?
Ask the patient to state their name and another identifier, then compare them with the approved identity source and the order.
What should happen if patient identifiers do not match the order?
Resolve the mismatch before collection. Never guess, alter identifiers yourself, or collect first and sort it out later.
How should identity be confirmed if a patient cannot state it?
Follow the facility’s approved identification procedure and involve authorized staff or a responsible caregiver as appropriate.
What supports respectful communication during collection?
Explain who you are, what sample will be collected, and what to expect in plain language. Protect privacy and use a qualified interpreter or approved support when needed.
What does valid consent for specimen collection require?
Consent means the patient understands the proposed collection and agrees to it, as required by law and facility policy. Silence or lack of resistance is not consent.
What should a technician do if a patient declines or withdraws consent?
Stop, do not pressure the patient, and promptly notify the appropriate clinician or supervisor. Document the event as required.
How should a technician verify preparation requirements?
Check the order and laboratory procedure for test-specific requirements, such as fasting, timed collection, or special handling. Report concerns rather than independently changing the order.