California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following actions is NOT a recommended practice when collecting blood samples?

1. Labeling tubes before collection

2. Using aseptic technique

3. Confirming patient identity

4. Following a proper draw order

The correct answer is: Labeling tubes before collection

Labeling tubes before collection is not considered a recommended practice because it increases the risk of errors. If tubes are labeled before the sample is collected, there's a chance that they could be mixed up or incorrectly matched to the patient. This could lead to serious consequences, such as misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment. Proper practice dictates that tubes should be labeled immediately after collection while the phlebotomist is still positioned with the patient, ensuring that the labeled information is accurate and corresponds to the blood sample taken. Using aseptic technique is crucial in blood collection to prevent contamination and infection. Confirming patient identity is a vital step to ensure the correct patient is being tested and that the samples are matched accurately. Following a proper draw order is essential to avoid cross-contamination between different tests that may require specific protocols for sample integrity. Each of these actions contributes to the safety and accuracy of blood sampling.