NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Specimen HandlingMedium
A phlebotomy technician is documenting a specimen rejection due to hemolysis. Which of the following details is crucial to include in the documentation?
- AThe reason for rejection (hemolysis) and the corrective action (e.g., recollection).
- BThe patient's preferred phlebotomy site.
- CThe type of needle used for the collection.
- DThe name of the phlebotomist who performed the collection.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The reason for rejection (hemolysis) and the corrective action (e.g., recollection).
Thorough documentation of specimen rejection includes the specific reason (e.g., hemolysis), who rejected it, when, and what corrective actions were taken or recommended. This ensures transparency, traceability, and helps identify potential issues in collection practices.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While important for future collections, the patient's preferred site is not a direct reason for *this* specimen's rejection.
- C. The needle type can contribute to hemolysis but is not the primary detail for documenting the rejection itself; the hemolysis is the direct reason.
- D. The phlebotomist's name is usually part of the initial collection documentation, but the *reason* for rejection and *corrective action* are paramount for rejection documentation.
Specimen Rejection Documentation
Documentation of specimen rejection must clearly state the reason for rejection, the date/time, who rejected it, and any corrective actions taken or suggested, ensuring traceability and quality improvement.
- Reason for rejection.
- Date/time of rejection.
- Action taken (recollection, etc.).
Memory trick: Rejection Log: Reason, Response, Record.