Proper Procedures for Collecting Blood Samples for Complete Blood Count Analysis

Summary

• Proper identification of the patient is crucial before collecting a blood sample for a complete blood count analysis.
• Thoroughly clean the site for Venipuncture and use the appropriate equipment to collect the blood sample.
• Follow proper handling and storage procedures to ensure the accuracy of the results from the complete blood count analysis.

Introduction

Collecting a blood sample for a complete blood count (CBC) analysis is a common procedure in medical labs and phlebotomy practices across the United States. A CBC analysis provides valuable information about a patient's overall health by measuring various components of their blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Proper procedures must be followed to collect a blood sample accurately and ensure reliable results from the CBC analysis.

Proper Identification of the Patient

Before collecting a blood sample for a CBC analysis, it is essential to properly identify the patient to prevent any mix-ups or errors in the testing process. The following steps should be followed for accurate patient identification:

1. Ask the patient to state their full name and date of birth.
2. Check the patient's identification wristband for their name and medical record number.
3. Verify the information on the wristband with the patient's identification card or driver's license.
4. Confirm the patient's identity with a second healthcare professional, if necessary.

Site Preparation for Venipuncture

Proper site preparation for Venipuncture is crucial to prevent infection and ensure a successful blood draw for a CBC analysis. The following steps should be followed to clean the site for Venipuncture:

1. Select the appropriate vein for Venipuncture, typically the median cubital vein in the antecubital fossa.
2. Clean the site with an alcohol swab in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward.
3. Allow the site to dry completely before performing the Venipuncture to prevent contamination of the blood sample.

Collection of the Blood Sample

Once the patient has been properly identified, and the site has been prepared for Venipuncture, the next step is to collect the blood sample for the CBC analysis. The following procedures should be followed to ensure a successful blood draw:

1. Put on gloves and locate the selected vein for Venipuncture.
2. Apply a Tourniquet above the site to engorge the vein and make it easier to locate.
3. Insert the needle into the vein at a 15 to 30-degree angle, with the bevel facing up.
4. Collect the required amount of blood into the appropriate blood collection tubes for the CBC analysis.
5. Release the Tourniquet before removing the needle to prevent hematomas.
6. Apply pressure to the site with gauze to stop any bleeding and secure a bandage over the puncture site.

Handling and Storage of the Blood Sample

Once the blood sample has been collected for the CBC analysis, it is essential to handle and store it properly to ensure the accuracy of the Test Results. The following procedures should be followed for handling and storing the blood sample:

1. Label the blood collection tubes with the patient's name, date of birth, and medical record number.
2. Store the blood sample at the appropriate temperature and conditions to prevent degradation of the blood cells.
3. Transport the blood sample to the laboratory promptly for processing to avoid any delays in the testing process.
4. Follow the laboratory's procedures for centrifugation and analysis of the blood sample for the CBC test.

Conclusion

Collecting a blood sample for a CBC analysis requires following proper procedures to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results. From proper patient identification to handling and storing the blood sample correctly, each step plays a crucial role in the testing process. By following the recommended procedures for collecting a blood sample for a CBC analysis, medical labs and phlebotomy practices can provide accurate information about a patient's overall health and well-being.

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