NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

If a patient becomes unresponsive during a blood draw, what is the first action a phlebotomist should take?

1. Call for help

2. Check for breathing

3. Start CPR

4. Wait for the patient to regain consciousness

The correct answer is: Check for breathing

When a patient becomes unresponsive during a blood draw, the first action a phlebotomist should take is to check for breathing. This step is crucial because it helps determine the patient's level of consciousness and responsiveness. If the patient is not breathing, immediate steps can be taken to initiate life-saving measures. Assessing the patient's breathing allows the phlebotomist to quickly gauge whether the situation requires further intervention, such as starting CPR or calling for help. Recognizing whether the patient is breathing provides vital information that dictates the next steps and necessary actions to ensure the patient's safety. Initiating the check for breathing before calling for help or other actions ensures that the phlebotomist prioritizes the patient’s immediate needs and can act swiftly based on that assessment.