LQPB2203 - CMLE - APPROPRIATE DRAW SITES FOR LABORATORY TESTING-APPROPRIATE DRAW SITES FOR LABORATORY TESTING

APPROPRIATE DRAW SITES FOR LABORATORY TESTING

Pdf Summary

The document discusses phlebotomy techniques and the importance of choosing appropriate draw sites for blood collection to ensure accurate laboratory results and patient safety. It presents two cases where preanalytic errors in blood collection led to inaccurate results. Case A involved a contaminated specimen due to IV fluid, resulting in dilution issues, which were rectified by a re-collection of blood. In Case B, subtle discrepancies in results were found, leading to a re-collection that confirmed contamination from a PICC line. The importance of proper phlebotomy techniques, such as avoiding contaminated draw sites, using correct needle sizes, and gentle handling of blood samples, is emphasized. Additionally, the document highlights the significance of assessing alternative draw sites in compromised patients, like those with chronic illnesses or existing catheters, to ensure quality laboratory testing. Ultimately, choosing the best draw site for each patient is crucial for obtaining reliable results and promoting patient safety, contributing to positive outcomes in healthcare.

Keywords

phlebotomy techniques

blood collection

draw sites

laboratory results

patient safety

preanalytic errors

contaminated specimen

needle sizes

blood samples

alternative draw sites