Taking a blood sample requires several precise steps that protect both you and the patient. To help remember these steps, you will create a checklist of what needs to be done. You will also create a label for a lab specimen so you can remember all the proper documentation that needs to take place each time you collect a specimen.

Question

Step 1: Create a Checklist
Create a checklist of the steps of taking a blood sample.

Be sure to start with PPE. Apply your knowledge of PPE used in various situations such as venipuncture and other types of specimen collection to describe what you would need to do when taking a blood sample. What steps will you add to your checklist to make sure you are using PPE accurately?

Continue on with the other steps you would take in this process of collecting a blood sample.

Step 2: Create a Sample Label
Design a sample label that you can use as a model for future specimens. Demonstrate proper labeling of lab specimens, including patient name, date of birth, source, date, time, and initials of collector.

Answer 1

Step 1: Checklist for Taking a Blood Sample

PPE & Preparation:

1. Gather Supplies:

   • Ensure you have all necessary equipment ready, including gloves, alcohol swabs, needles, collection tubes, gauze, and bandages.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Wear Gloves: Put on disposable gloves before any contact with the patient or specimen.
   • Face Shield/Mask (if applicable): Wear a face shield or mask if there is a risk of blood splatter or if you are in a high-risk environment.
   • Lab Coat or Gown: Wear a lab coat or gown to protect your clothing from potential contamination.
   • Safety Glasses: Consider wearing safety glasses or goggles if needed for additional protection.

3. Hand Hygiene:

   • Perform hand hygiene before and after putting on gloves. Use an alcohol-based hand rub or wash with soap and water.

Patient Interaction:

4. Introduce Yourself:

   • Approach the patient, introduce yourself, and explain the procedure to ensure understanding and consent.

5. Verify Patient Identity:

   • Confirm the patient's identity by asking for their name and date of birth, and cross-check with the medical records or wristband.

6. Assess the Site:

   • Look for an appropriate venipuncture site (usually the antecubital fossa) and assess for factors like veins’ size, depth, and health.

Blood Collection:

7. Prepare the Site:

   • Clean the venipuncture site with an alcohol swab, using a circular motion from the center outward, and allow it to dry completely.

8. Position the Patient:

   • Ensure the patient is comfortable, seated or lying down to avoid fainting, and arm extended.

9. Insert the Needle:

   • Carefully insert the needle into the chosen vein at the correct angle, typically 15-30 degrees. Ensure the bevel is facing up.

10. Collect Blood:

    • Allow the blood to flow into the collection tube. If using multiple tubes, follow the correct order of draw.

11. Withdraw the Needle:

    • After collecting the required samples, withdraw the needle swiftly and immediately apply gauze to the site.

Post-Collection:

12. Dispose of Materials:

    • Dispose of the needle in a sharps container and other materials in appropriate biohazard waste.

13. Apply Bandage:

    • Cover the venipuncture site with a bandage once the bleeding stops.

14. Label Specimens:

    • Label the blood collection tubes immediately and accurately.

15. Document the Procedure:

    • Record details of the blood draw in the patient's records, including the time, date, and any observations.

16. Hand Hygiene:

    • Perform hand hygiene again after removal of gloves and before touching anything else.

Step 2: Sample Label Design

[Sample Label Template]

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|                PATIENT LABEL            |
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| Patient Name:  ______________________   |
| Date of Birth: ______________________   |
| Specimen Source: _____________________   |
| Date Collected: ________________       |
| Time Collected: ________________       |
| Collector Initials: _________________   |
| Additional Notes: ____________________  |
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Example of Properly Filled Sample Label

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|                PATIENT LABEL            |
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| Patient Name:  John Doe                 |
| Date of Birth: 01/15/1980               |
| Specimen Source: Right Arm               |
| Date Collected: 10/03/2023              |
| Time Collected: 10:30 AM                |
| Collector Initials: J.S.                 |
| Additional Notes: None                   |
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This structured approach ensures that all steps are adhered to, minimizing risks to both the patient and the collector while maintaining accurate records for laboratory processing.