SPECIMEN COLLECTION

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U

N/A

Identify the location of the code or emergency cart. (if applicable)

Assemble all necessary materials prior to beginning venipuncture.

Identify the patient by matching order with verbal information. (DOB and/or SS#)

Greet the  patient in a friendly manner and explain the purpose of the blood specimen.

Explain the procedure to the patient.

Identify the proper specimen to be drawn using specimen collection protocol.

Place patient into a safe venipuncture drawing position.

Assemble equipment near drawing area.

Wash hands and apply gloves

Identify a suitable vein.

Apply tourniquet for venipuncture; do not leave on for an excessive amount of time.

Select optimum vessel, palpate and trace vein path with index finger.

Apply alcohol skin prep in a circular motion. (Betadine for alcohol blood level)

Anchor vein and smoothly insert needle with bevel up.

Smoothly pushes evacuated tube into holder without changing the needle position.

Change position of needle if applicable to establish blood flow.

Release tourniquet for adequate blood flow. (Leave on until tubes drawn if indicated)

Fill tubes in the correct order.

Change tubes if applicable.

Mix tubes (if appropriate) by gently inverting.

S

U

N/A

Remove last tube from holder before withdrawing needle.

Quickly and smoothly withdraws the needle prior to applying pressure.

Apply pressure to the site after needle withdrawal.

Ask the patient to keep the arm straight and continue pressure.

Dispose of needle carefully into the sharps container.

Ascertain that bleeding has stopped.

Apply appropriate dressing. (Check for tape allergy)

Escort patient to waiting room, exam room, front desk etc.

Leave  patient courteously and respectfully.

SPECIMEN PREPARATION:

Label tubes with patient name, date, time, ID number etc.

Clean up supplies and discard waste appropriately.

Remove gloves and wash hands.

Prepare lab slip (outside lab) with all pertinent information.

Follow office protocol for billing after examination. (indicate on statement/chart)