American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

Why is it important for a phlebotomist to identify a patient correctly before blood collection?

1. To ensure the right test is performed

2. To prevent patient identification errors

3. To ensure the test results are valid

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Identifying a patient correctly before blood collection is crucial for several interconnected reasons. One of the primary considerations is the prevention of patient identification errors, which can lead to serious medical consequences if incorrect samples are associated with the wrong patient. Mistakes in patient identification may result in misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment, as the test results could pertain to a completely unrelated individual. Additionally, ensuring the right test is performed is essential for obtaining accurate results. Each patient may have different medical histories, conditions, and needs, necessitating specific tests. If a phlebotomist does not correctly identify the patient, there is a risk of conducting tests that are not relevant, which can delay proper diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the validity of test results hinges on the accurate identification of the patient. Lab results are used to inform clinical decisions; hence, any discrepancy in whom the blood belongs to can compromise the integrity of the results. This ultimately affects patient safety and the quality of care. By understanding the importance of correct patient identification, it becomes clear that all these factors collectively underline the necessity for thorough and accurate procedures in phlebotomy practices.