Which of the following actions should a medical assistant take to properly process a blood specimen?

A. To ensure accuracy of test results: Quality control ensures that the test results are accurate and reliable, which is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
B. To determine if a test is CLIA-waived: Quality control does not determine CLIA-waived status; it ensures the accuracy and reliability of tests.
C. To enhance instrument productivity: While quality control can indirectly impact productivity by ensuring correct results, it is primarily focused on accuracy and reliability.
D. To monitor the use of instrumentation: Quality control is more focused on test accuracy rather than monitoring the use of instrumentation.

A. Alcohol-based sanitizer: Alcohol-based sanitizers are effective for hand hygiene when there is no visible dirt or grease. They are generally used for routine hand antisepsis in situations where hands are not visibly soiled. For procedures involving body fluids, if hands are visibly soiled, traditional handwashing with soap and water is preferred.
B. Disinfectant scrub: Disinfectant scrubs are generally used for cleaning surfaces and are not appropriate for personal hand hygiene.
C. Antiseptic solution: Antiseptic solutions are used for cleaning skin before injections or procedures, not typically for hand hygiene.
D. Liquid soap: Liquid soap is suitable for handwashing, especially when hands are visibly soiled or after exposure to body fluids. In the context of body fluids, soap and water would be preferable to ensure effective removal of contaminants.