Which of the following lancet positions should a phlebotomist recognize as part of the aseptic technique protocol?
Perpendicular to the fingerprint grooves
Parallel to the nail bed
Along the lateral portion of the first digit
Along the medial portion of the fifth digit
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
When performing a capillary blood collection, such as a fingerstick, the lancet should be positioned perpendicular to the fingerprint grooves. This orientation helps to ensure that the incision is made across the ridges of the fingerprint, which can facilitate a better blood flow and make it easier to collect an adequate sample without needing to squeeze the finger excessively, which could hemolyze the sample.
Choice B reason:
Positioning the lancet parallel to the nail bed is not recommended because it can result in a cut that runs along the length of the fingerprint grooves, which may not bleed as freely and could also be more painful for the patient.
Choice C reason:
Using the lancet along the lateral portion of the first digit is not part of the standard aseptic technique protocol for capillary blood collection. The first digit, or thumb, has a pulse and should generally be avoided because it can be more sensitive and is more prone to bruising.
Choice D reason:
The medial portion of the fifth digit, or the little finger, is also not a recommended site for capillary blood collection with a lancet. The little finger is typically smaller and may not provide an adequate site for blood collection, and similar to the thumb, it can be more sensitive and prone to injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The laboratory accession number is a unique identifier assigned to a patient's specimen once it is received by the laboratory. While it is an important piece of information, it is not provided by the physician's office to the phlebotomist for specimen collection. Instead, it is generated by the laboratory after the specimen is collected and submitted for analysis.
Choice B reason:
The Physician's NPI (National Provider Identifier) number is a unique identification number for covered health care providers in the United States. While it is used for billing and identification purposes, it is not the information that the physician's office needs to provide to a phlebotomist for the purpose of specimen collection.
Choice C reason:
The laboratory requisition form is the correct document that should be provided by the physician's office. This form contains the patient's demographic information, the tests ordered by the physician, special instructions for specimen collection, and any other pertinent information required for proper specimen handling and testing.
Choice D reason:
The physician's encounter form typically contains details of the patient's visit, including services provided, diagnoses, and billing information. It is not specifically used for laboratory specimen collection and therefore is not the information that should be provided to a phlebotomist for this purpose.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Keeping the patient as upright as possible is not recommended in cases of shock. When a patient is in shock, it is important to lay them down and elevate their legs slightly, unless this position causes pain or further injury. This position helps improve blood flow to the brain.
Choice B Reason:
Providing a cooling blanket is not a standard first aid measure for shock due to a medication reaction. A cooling blanket may be used in cases of hyperthermia or heatstroke to reduce body temperature, but not typically for shock, which requires maintaining normal body temperature and preventing chilling.
Choice C Reason:
Administering oral fluids to a patient in shock is not advisable. During shock, a patient may have an impaired swallowing reflex or be unconscious, increasing the risk of aspiration. It is best to avoid giving anything by mouth until medical personnel arrive.
Choice D Reason:
Maintaining an open airway is crucial for a patient in shock. Ensuring that the airway is clear allows the patient to breathe effectively, which is essential for delivering oxygen to the tissues and organs. If the patient is unconscious or has an altered level of consciousness, the phlebotomist should check for breathing and begin CPR if necessary.
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