California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

In what scenario should a phlebotomy technician opt for capillary blood collection?

1. When testing for blood type

2. After two failed venipuncture attempts

3. When a patient has high blood pressure

4. For routine glucose testing

The correct answer is: After two failed venipuncture attempts

In cases where a phlebotomy technician has made two unsuccessful attempts at obtaining a venous sample, opting for capillary blood collection is a practical and often necessary alternative. Capillary blood samples can be collected easily and quickly using a fingerstick or heelstick method, providing a viable option when traditional venipuncture is not successful. This approach not only minimizes patient discomfort but also ensures that the technician can still obtain the required specimens for testing without unnecessary delays. The scenario where capillary blood collection is preferred supports efficient patient care, especially for repeated testing needs. It is also important to consider that certain tests may not be suitable for capillary blood specimens, thus emphasizing the critical thinking involved in determining the most appropriate collection method based on the situation at hand.