Commonly used skill that contributes the most errors in the laboratory setting

A number to identify all paperwork and supplies associated with each patient

What is the main purpose of greeting your patient?

A cheerful, pleasant manner and an exchange of small talk will help to put a patient at ease as well as divert attention from any discomfort associated with the procedure.

It is ok to tell the patient, “This is not going to hurt.”

Blood may be collected from a standing patient.

Tourniquet is applied 3 to 4 inches above the intended venipuncture site to restrict venous blood flow.

The tourniquet ends should point toward the elbow to prevent them from contaminating the blood collection site.

The nondominant hand is used to firmly secure the vein while the collection equipment is held and the needle inserted using the dominant hand.

When performing venipuncture on the median antecubital vein, you may insert the needle at the elbow crease.

Presence of blood in the syringe hub indicates that the vein has been successfully entered.

Tubes may be labeled before coming in contact with the patient.

Prompt delivery to the laboratory protects specimen integrity.

To avoid inadvertently puncturing an artery, always select a vein that overlies or is close to where you feel a pulse.