NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineEasy
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to collect a blood specimen from a patient who has a known allergy to latex. Which of the following actions should the technician take?
- AProceed with standard latex equipment, as skin contact is minimal.
- BUse only powder-free latex gloves for the procedure.
- CAdminister an antihistamine to the patient before the draw.
- DApply a latex-free tourniquet and use non-latex bandages.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Apply a latex-free tourniquet and use non-latex bandages.
For patients with latex allergies, all materials that will come into contact with the patient must be latex-free, including tourniquets, gloves, and bandages, to prevent an allergic reaction.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Proceeding with standard latex equipment is unsafe and can trigger a severe allergic reaction.
- B. Even powder-free latex gloves contain latex proteins and can cause a reaction in sensitive individuals.
- C. Administering medication is outside the scope of practice for a phlebotomy technician and is not a substitute for using latex-free supplies.
Latex Allergy Precautions
Measures taken to protect patients with latex allergies from exposure to latex products during medical procedures.
- Identify patients with latex allergy history.
- Use only latex-free gloves, tourniquets, and bandages.
- Be aware of other potential latex-containing items (e.g., some syringe plungers, vial stoppers).
- If a latex-containing product must be used in a critical situation, ensure proper documentation and monitoring.
Memory trick: Allergies mean ALL latex-free.