California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

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What is the recommended action for a phlebotomy technician when performing a blood culture collection?

Wipe the site with alcohol prep pad
Use a sterile gauze to clean the site
Scrub the site with isopropyl alcohol for 1 min in outward, concentric circles
Apply a tourniquet before cleaning the site

The correct answer is: Scrub the site with isopropyl alcohol for 1 min in outward, concentric circles

When performing a blood culture collection, proper site preparation is crucial to prevent contamination of the sample, which could lead to inaccurate results. The recommended action is to scrub the site with isopropyl alcohol in outward, concentric circles for a full minute. This technique ensures that the skin is thoroughly cleaned, reducing the likelihood of any bacteria that might be present on the surface of the skin being transferred into the blood sample. The concentric motions help to move any contaminants away from the puncture site while effectively disinfecting the area. Additionally, the use of isopropyl alcohol is effective in killing a range of microorganisms. The one-minute scrubbing duration is important as it allows enough time for the antiseptic to properly act, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the disinfection process. This method is aligned with best practices for blood culture collection to ensure the highest integrity of the sample and the most accurate laboratory results.