California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

When a patient refuses a blood draw, the best course of action is to respect their decision, document the refusal, and inform the physician. This approach upholds the ethical principle of patient autonomy, which emphasizes that patients have the right to make informed decisions about their medical care, including the choice to refuse procedures.

Documenting the refusal is crucial because it creates a record of the patient's wishes and the healthcare provider's response, which is important for medical legal reasons. This documentation can protect both the patient and the healthcare provider by clearly indicating that the patient was informed and chose not to proceed. Additionally, informing the physician is necessary so that the patient's overall care can be adjusted accordingly, taking into account their preferences and any potential health implications stemming from the refusal.

The other choices either overlook the importance of respecting the patient's decision or do not adequately ensure proper documentation and communication with the healthcare team, which are vital components of patient care in such scenarios.