PCTC Phlebotomy

Front

Testing for pH in urine

Back

Measures if urine is acidic or alkaline. Routine urine specimen is needed.

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Testing for glucose or ketones in urine

Back

Typically used for testing for diabetes. Sugar (glycosuria) and acetone may appear in the urine. Double-voided specimens are best.

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Testing for blood in urine

Back

Injuries or illnesses can cause blood to appear in the urine (hematuria). Routine specimen is used.

Front

Blood in stools

Back

Can appear due to ulcers, some forms of cancer, or hemorrhoids. Follow doctor’s prescription for testing.

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Sputum specimens

Back

Not saliva; tested due to disorders of the lungs, bronchi, etc. Studied for blood, microbes, and abnormal cells.

Front

Best site for venipuncture

Back

Antecubital fossa of the upper extremities. Vein should be large enough for the needle and visible or palpable after tourniquet placement.

Front

Major veins in the antecubital fossa

Back

1. Median cubital vein: First choice, large, rarely moves. 2. Cephalic vein: Difficult to locate, palpable in obese patients. 3. Basilic vein: Least firmly anchored, may be punctured if inserted too deep.

Front

Avoiding certain veins for venipuncture

Back

Avoid sclerosed veins (hard or cordlike) and tortuous veins (winding or crooked). Avoid veins with IV fluids running into them.

Front

Tourniquet usage in blood collection

Back

A tourniquet is used to make veins easier to find for venipuncture.

Front

Vacutainer tubes usage

Back

Vacutainer tubes are used for laboratory blood collection and are color-coded based on the presence of additives.