Common Mistakes in Phlebotomy Practices: Impact on Specimen Integrity and Test Results

Summary

• Improper patient identification can lead to specimen mix-ups and inaccurate Test Results.
• Incorrect collection techniques may result in hemolysis or contamination of the specimen.
• Inadequate labeling and documentation can cause confusion and delays in processing the specimen.

Introduction

Phlebotomy is a critical step in the laboratory testing process, as it involves the collection of blood specimens from patients for diagnostic purposes. Proper phlebotomy practices are essential to ensure the integrity of the specimen and accurate Test Results. However, there are several common mistakes that can compromise the integrity of a specimen during the phlebotomy process in a medical lab in the United States.

Improper Patient Identification

One of the most common mistakes that can compromise the integrity of a specimen during the phlebotomy process is improper patient identification. Failing to correctly identify the patient before drawing blood can lead to specimen mix-ups and inaccurate Test Results. This can have serious consequences for patient care, as the wrong Test Results could lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.

1. Failure to ask for two patient identifiers, such as name and date of birth, before drawing blood.
2. Misidentifying the patient by relying solely on visual identification without verifying with the patient themselves.
3. Using outdated or incorrect patient information, such as using a wristband from a previous visit.

Incorrect Collection Techniques

Another common mistake that can compromise the integrity of a specimen during the phlebotomy process is using incorrect collection techniques. Improper collection techniques can result in hemolysis, which is the breakdown of red blood cells, or contamination of the specimen with substances that can interfere with Test Results.

1. Using a needle that is too small or too large for the specimen being collected, which can cause hemolysis or trauma to the vein.
2. Failing to properly mix the blood with the additive in the collection tube, leading to inaccurate Test Results.
3. Not allowing the alcohol to dry completely before collecting the specimen, which can introduce contaminants into the sample.

Inadequate Labeling and Documentation

Inadequate labeling and documentation of the specimen can also compromise its integrity during the phlebotomy process. Properly labeling the specimen with the patient's information and the date and time of collection is essential to ensure that it can be accurately identified and processed in the laboratory. Inadequate documentation can lead to confusion and delays in processing the specimen, which can affect patient care.

1. Failure to label the specimen immediately after collection, increasing the risk of mix-ups with other specimens.
2. Using illegible handwriting or abbreviations that are not universally understood, leading to errors in processing the specimen.
3. Not documenting any issues or complications that occurred during the collection process, such as difficulty locating a vein or the patient experiencing dizziness.

Conclusion

Ensuring the integrity of a specimen during the phlebotomy process is essential to obtaining accurate and reliable Test Results. By avoiding common mistakes such as improper patient identification, incorrect collection techniques, and inadequate labeling and documentation, healthcare professionals can help prevent errors that could negatively impact patient care. Proper training, adherence to established protocols, and attention to detail are key factors in maintaining the integrity of specimens during the phlebotomy process in medical labs across the United States.

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