A phlebotomist enters a patient's room and observes the patient to be motionless and cyanotic. Which of the following actions should the phlebotomist take first?

Choice A reason:
A specimen bag is typically used for transporting specimens from the collection site to the laboratory. It is not designed for the disposal of contaminated items such as microscope slides. These bags are not puncture-resistant and do not provide the necessary protection against sharps injuries or contamination.

Choice B reason:
A biohazard bag is used for disposing of items that have been contaminated with potentially infectious materials. While it is suitable for materials like gloves, tissues, or any other items that do not have sharp edges, it is not the appropriate choice for glass slides, which can puncture the bag and pose a risk to handlers.

Choice C reason:
A red sharps container is specifically designed for the disposal of sharps waste, which includes any device that can puncture or cut skin, such as needles, syringes, lancets, and contaminated glass such as microscope slides. These containers are rigid, puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and usually marked with a biohazard symbol, making them the correct choice for disposing of contaminated microscope slides.

Choice D reason:
A medical waste container is a broad term that can refer to various types of containers used for medical waste. However, not all medical waste containers are suitable for sharps disposal. Unless the medical waste container is designed like a red sharps container, it may not be safe for disposing of glass slides.

Choice A Reason:
An angle of 50° is too steep for venipuncture and increases the risk of going through the vein and causing injury to structures beneath it. A steeper angle can also make it more difficult to control the depth of the needle, leading to an increased chance of puncturing the posterior wall of the vein.

Choice B Reason:
An angle of 30° is the recommended angle for venipuncture as it allows for a smooth entry into the vein without going too deep. This angle helps to ensure that the needle enters the vein in a controlled manner and minimizes the risk of injury to the patient. It also provides a good balance between ease of entry and control over the needle's depth.

Choice C Reason:
An angle of 90° is not recommended for venipuncture because it is perpendicular to the skin, which greatly increases the risk of passing through the vein entirely and causing injury. This angle does not allow for any control over the depth of the needle and is likely to cause discomfort or pain to the patient.

Choice D Reason:
An angle of 75° is also too steep for safe venipuncture. Similar to a 50° angle, it increases the risk of penetrating the posterior wall of the vein and potentially damaging surrounding tissues or arteries. It is important to use a lower angle to ensure the safety and comfort of the patient during the procedure.