NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineHard
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to collect a blood specimen for a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. Which of the following antiseptics is appropriate to use for skin preparation?
- A70% Isopropyl alcohol
- BChlorhexidine gluconate
- CBenzalkonium chloride
- DPovidone-iodine
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Benzalkonium chloride
For blood alcohol content (BAC) tests, it is critical to avoid alcohol-based antiseptics, as they can falsely elevate the patient's blood alcohol level. Benzalkonium chloride is a non-alcohol-based antiseptic that is appropriate for skin preparation in this scenario.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Isopropyl alcohol is alcohol-based and will contaminate the BAC sample.
- B. Chlorhexidine gluconate is an acceptable non-alcohol antiseptic, but some formulations may contain alcohol, and Benzalkonium chloride is a clearer choice.
- D. Povidone-iodine is also an acceptable non-alcohol antiseptic, but Benzalkonium chloride is specifically designed for alcohol testing.
BAC Test Antiseptic
Specific antiseptic requirements for blood alcohol content (BAC) testing to ensure accurate results by avoiding alcohol contamination.
- Must use non-alcohol-based antiseptic.
- Common choices: Benzalkonium chloride, Povidone-iodine.
- Alcohol-based wipes can falsely elevate BAC readings.
Memory trick: For BAC, No Alcohol in the Wipe, or your results will be a hype!