Phlebotomy Exam Review Flashcards

This flashcard set covers key terms and concepts related to phlebotomy and specimen collection, aiding in exam preparation.

Proper Order of Draw

1. Sterile tube 2. Blue top coagulation tube 3. Serum tube 4. Heparin tube 5. EDTA tube 6. Glycolytic tube

Hemoconcentration

An increase in the concentration of blood components due to fluid loss, often caused by prolonged application of a tourniquet.

Capillary Blood Collection

The first drop of blood should be wiped away because it is typically contaminated with tissue fluid.

Calcaneus

The heel bone in the foot.

Syncope during Venipuncture

The phlebotomist should remove the tourniquet and needle and call for help if a patient faints during blood draw.

70% Isopropyl Alcohol

The best antiseptic used to prepare the skin for routine venipuncture.

Color Coding on Needles

Indicates the gauge of the needle; it does not indicate length or anticoagulant.

EDTA

A commonly used anticoagulant found in lavender-topped blood collection tubes.

Sodium Heparin

The anticoagulant found in green-topped blood collection tubes.

Light Blue Top Tube

Used for coagulation tests and must be filled 100%.

Primary Care Physicians

Family practitioners and internists are often considered primary care physicians.

Onset of Blood Sample Collection

The tourniquet should not be on the arm longer than one minute for accurate results.

Pediatric Blood Draws

Acknowledging both the child and the parent can alleviate anxiety during blood draws.

Charts and Documentation

Proper charting and documentation is critical in legal cases involving healthcare malpractice.

Needlestick Prevention

Employers are responsible for making safety awareness in the workplace a priority to reduce needlestick injuries.

Preanalytical Errors

Mistakes made before laboratory testing, often leading to compromised specimen quality.

Plasma Composition

90% of plasma is water.

Venipuncture Procedure

Explain the procedure and gain consent before beginning the blood drawing process.

Blood Culture Collection

Cleansing the venipuncture site is the most critical step in collecting blood cultures.

Bilirubin Testing

Bilirubin samples should be protected from light to prevent degradation of the sample.

Anticoagulants

Prevent blood clotting and are often used in blood collection tubes.

Standard Precautions

Phlebotomists must follow standard precautions, including proper hand hygiene and using PPE.

Errors in Blood Specimen Collection

Collecting blood from an expired tube can lead to inaccurate results.

Throat Culture Collection

The throat swab should be taken in the area of inflammation for optimal streptococcal isolation.

Sample Storage for Lab Tests

Specimens needing refrigeration must be properly stored if not processed immediately.

Informed Consent

Patients must be informed about the procedures they are undergoing and provide consent.

Healthcare Provider Liability

Healthcare providers can be held liable for negligence if they do not perform their duties satisfactorily.

Postprandial Sampling

Blood samples should be collected 2 hours after the patient has eaten for accurate glucose readings.

Specimen Labeling

Specimens must be labeled immediately after collection with patient details for identification.

Sputum Samples

Specimens must be collected from deep within the lungs for accurate culture results.

Specific Gravity of Urine

A measurement often used to assess kidney function and hydration status.

Biohazard Waste

All biological waste should be disposed of in designated containers to prevent contamination.

Professional Etiquette

Phlebotomists should introduce themselves and explain procedures to patients calmly and confidently.

Calcium Levels in Blood

Calcium levels can be affected by hemolysis, which may occur if a sample is handled improperly.

Blood Pressure Measurement

Hypertension can lead to various complications in venipuncture procedures.

Antimicrobial Testing

Tests for serum antimicrobial levels must be performed in a timely manner to ensure accuracy.

Child Blood Draw Techniques

Techniques should involve comfort measures and transparency to the child during procedures.

Lab Standards - CLSI

Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute sets guidelines for laboratory testing practices.

Effective Communication

Listening and responding appropriately are key in effective patient and provider interactions.

Tubes for Hematology Tests

Lavender or purple-topped tubes are used for performing CBC tests.

Health Information Technology

Utilization of electronic health records helps streamline patient care and communication.

Specimen Integrity

Ensuring proper collection and handling of samples to prevent contamination and inaccurate results.

Patient Identification

It’s critical to verify a patient’s identity before collecting any blood specimens.

Common Complications of Phlebotomy

Complications include hematoma formation, infection, and nerve damage.

Blood Volume in Organisms

An average adult has about 5-6 liters of blood, adjusting according to body size.

Electrolyte Imbalance

Monitoring electrolytes is essential in patients with renal issues to prevent complications.

Hematology Tests

Analyzing blood counts can assist in diagnosing various medical conditions.

Post-Procedure Care

Proper aftercare is necessary to ensure successful healing at the venipuncture site.

Respiratory System Functions

Responsible for gas exchange, the respiratory system filters air and regulates blood pH.

Preservation of Specimens

Preserved specimens should be stored appropriately to maintain their chemical properties.

Hemolysis Causes

Factors leading to hemolysis include forceful syringe pulls and improper collection techniques.

Patient Comfort during Procedures

Ensuring patient comfort should be a priority during all phlebotomy procedures.

Emerging Trends in Phlebotomy

Technological advances continue to shape the field of phlebotomy, improving safety and efficiency.

Anticoagulant Types

Different types of anticoagulants are used based on tests being performed on blood samples.

Education in Phlebotomy

Continuous education ensures phlebotomists remain updated on best practices and standards.

Informed Consent Importance

Informed consent protects both patients and practitioners legally within healthcare situations.

Stress in Phlebotomy

Managing stress through effective techniques can improve the quality of patient interactions.

Phlebotomy Ethics and Legalities

Phlebotomists must adhere to ethical and legal guidelines to ensure patient trust and care.

Criminal Law in Healthcare

Criminal laws address unlawful acts within healthcare, including fraud or negligence.

Health Records Management

Proper management ensures patient confidentiality and compliance with healthcare regulations.

Specimen Transfer Techniques

Proper transfer of specimens from syringes to tubes is crucial for test accuracy.

Emergency Response Protocols

Phlebotomy staff should be trained in emergency response for adverse reactions during draws.

Documentation Standards

Accurate and timely documentation of procedures is vital for patient care and legal coverage.

Glucose Monitoring

Routine monitoring is crucial for patients with diabetes to maintain health.

Patient Safety in Phlebotomy

Patient safety is paramount, necessitating adherence to established protocols.

Basic Anatomy of the Circulatory System

Understanding the circulatory system aids phlebotomists in identifying vein locations.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

Ongoing analysis of drug levels ensures patient safety and efficacy of treatment plans.

CLIA Requirements

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments regulate laboratory testing to ensure quality.

Healthcare Fraud

Billing for services not rendered can lead to significant legal consequences.

Laboratory Requisitions

Accurate requisitions ensure proper testing and patient identification; errors can be costly.

Sedation Protocol for Procedures

Patients may require sedation for specific blood collection processes, especially in pediatrics.

Crossmatch Testing

Essential in blood transfusions to prevent adverse reactions.

Personal Safety Equipment (PPE)

Gloves, masks, and aprons are vital in maintaining a safe environment for both patient and phlebotomist.

Accidental Needle Stick

Training on safety devices and standards greatly reduces the risk of accidents.

Specimen Collection Preparation

Patients might need specific preparations, like fasting, for accurate test results.

Infection Prevention Techniques

Following hygiene protocols is essential in any healthcare setting to prevent spread of infection.

Patient-Centered Care

Always ensure patient needs and concerns are addressed during any healthcare procedures.

Techniques for Difficult Draws

Various techniques, such as warming the site, can help in difficult blood draws.

Importance of patient feedback

Feedback from patients can improve the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals.

Waste Disposal Regulations

Proper disposal of biohazard waste is essential for public safety and infection control.

Clinical Laboratory Standards

Adhering to clinical laboratory standards allows for consistent and reliable test results.

Urine Specimen Collection Techniques

Understanding urine collection techniques is crucial for accurate testing and results.

Bloodborne Pathogen Standards

OSHA standards provide regulations for preventing exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Test Calibration Procedures

Routine calibration of lab equipment ensures test accuracy.

Role of Technology in Phlebotomy

Technological advancements improve specimen handling and reduce human error.

Injury Management Post-Procedure

Proper injury management following venipuncture is crucial for patient safety.

Quarantine Procedures for Specimens

Certain specimens may need quarantining or special handling due to infection risks.

Ethics in Phlebotomy Practice

Adhering to ethical standards builds patient trust and ensures professional conduct.

Evidence-Based Practices in Healthcare

Utilizing evidence-based practices leads to improved patient outcomes.

Patient Education on Procedures

Educating patients on procedures fosters cooperation and reduces anxiety.

Quality Control in Laboratories

Quality control processes ensure reliable laboratory results and patient safety.

Blood Gas Analysis

Blood gas analysis is key in assessing respiratory and metabolic function.

Complications During Blood Draw

Complications include excessive bleeding or nerve damage.

Informed Consent in Research

Participants must be adequately informed of the research implications before involvement.

Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Health

Social determinants play a significant role in healthcare access and outcomes.

Emergency Management in Phlebotomy

Adequate training in emergency management is necessary for patient safety.

Types of Blood Samples

Understanding various blood collection methods, such as venipuncture and capillary, is essential.

Comprehensive Lab Procedures

Comprehensive understanding of lab procedures is critical for successful phlebotomy.

Nutritional Factors Affecting Test Results

Diet can significantly impact various laboratory test outcomes.

Time Management in Phlebotomy

Efficient time management improves workflow and patient satisfaction.