NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Safety and ComplianceEasy
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to perform venipuncture on a patient with visible signs of a skin infection at the antecubital fossa. Which of the following actions should the technician take?
- AProceed with the venipuncture at the infected site, ensuring thorough disinfection.
- BApply a stronger antiseptic solution to the infected area before venipuncture.
- CSelect an alternative venipuncture site away from the infected area.
- DPerform the venipuncture as planned but notify the nurse immediately afterward.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Select an alternative venipuncture site away from the infected area.
Performing venipuncture through an infected area can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, leading to a localized infection or systemic sepsis. The safest practice is to choose an uninfected site.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Puncturing an infected site can spread the infection into the bloodstream.
- B. Even with a stronger antiseptic, the risk of infection remains high when puncturing an infected area.
- D. Notifying the nurse after the fact does not mitigate the risk of performing venipuncture on an infected site.
Site Selection for Venipuncture
The process of choosing an appropriate and safe location on the patient's body for blood collection.
- Avoid areas with infection, rashes, scars, or hematomas.
- Prioritize the antecubital fossa veins (median cubital, cephalic, basilic).
- Consider patient comfort and vein accessibility.
Memory trick: Always Look For Clean, Healthy Skin for a Good Draw