A phlebotomist should recognize that proper hand hygiene can result in which of the following?
A decrease in the incidence of health care-associated infections
An increase in the accuracy of laboratory results
A decrease in the rejection of laboratory specimens
An increase in the potential sources of pathogens
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of infections within health care settings. By thoroughly cleaning hands, phlebotomists and other health care workers can significantly reduce the transmission of pathogens that can lead to health care-associated infections (HAIs). These infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients and can be prevented by adhering to strict hand hygiene protocols.
Choice B Reason:
While hand hygiene is crucial for preventing contamination and infection, it does not directly increase the accuracy of laboratory results. The accuracy of laboratory results is more dependent on the proper collection, handling, and processing of specimens, as well as the precision of the testing equipment and methodologies used.
Choice C Reason:
Good hand hygiene can help decrease the rejection of laboratory specimens by preventing contamination. Contaminated specimens can lead to inaccurate results and may need to be recollected, which is inconvenient for the patient and can delay diagnosis and treatment. However, the primary outcome of proper hand hygiene is the prevention of HAIs, rather than the reduction of specimen rejection.
Choice D Reason:
Proper hand hygiene leads to a decrease, not an increase, in the potential sources of pathogens. By effectively removing germs from the hands, the risk of transmitting infectious agents is minimized. This is essential in a health care setting where patients may be vulnerable to infections due to weakened immune systems or open wounds.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asking another phlebotomist to obtain the specimen is a prudent step after multiple unsuccessful attempts. It can reduce the patient's discomfort and anxiety. A fresh perspective from another professional might increase the chances of a successful draw, especially in challenging situations like small, fragile veins often found in diabetic patients.
Choice B reason:
Performing the draw on a foot is not typically recommended due to the increased risk of infection and complications, especially in diabetic patients who may have reduced sensation and slower healing in their extremities. This option should only be considered when other more proximal sites have been deemed unsuitable.
Choice C reason:
Repeating the draws until successful is not advisable as it can cause undue stress to the patient and increase the risk of hematoma or vein damage. It is essential to minimize the number of attempts to prevent patient discomfort and potential complications.
Choice D reason:
Performing the draw on a leg is another option that is generally avoided unless absolutely necessary, due to similar reasons as drawing from a foot—risk of infection and complications. Additionally, it can be an uncomfortable position for the patient.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A hair cap is used to prevent contamination from the hair, but it is not specifically designed to protect against body fluid splashes. While it is a part of personal protective equipment (PPE), it does not provide coverage for the areas most likely to be exposed to splashes during phlebotomy procedures.
Choice B reason:
A gown is the appropriate choice for protection against body fluid splashes. It covers a significant portion of the body and is designed to prevent fluids from reaching the phlebotomist's skin or undergarments, which is essential when there is a risk of splashes during procedures like venipuncture.
Choice C reason:
Shoe covers protect the feet from contamination, but they are not typically necessary for phlebotomy unless there is a significant risk of large fluid spills on the floor. They are more commonly used in operating rooms or during the cleaning of large spills.
Choice D reason:
Sterile gloves are a standard requirement for phlebotomy to maintain aseptic technique and prevent contamination. However, gloves alone do not provide sufficient protection against body fluid splashes that may reach other parts of the body.
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