NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

If a phlebotomist notices a clergy member present with a patient during a routine blood draw, what should they do?

1. Proceed with the blood draw immediately

2. Ask the clergy member to leave the room

3. Wait for the clergy member to leave before proceeding

4. Draw blood for other patients first

The correct answer is: Draw blood for other patients first

In a situation where a clergy member is present during a routine blood draw, the appropriate action is to prioritize patient confidentiality and comfort. The presence of the clergy member may indicate that the patient is in a vulnerable state, and it is essential to ensure that the patient feels secure and that their privacy is respected during the procedure. When considering the actions, the correct approach would involve assessing the patient's comfort level with the presence of the clergy member. If the patient feels uneasy or if there is any concern about privacy, the phlebotomist should discuss this with the patient to determine if they are comfortable with the clergy member present. If the patient prefers to proceed without the clergy member, it would be appropriate to either ask the clergy member to step out briefly or wait until they leave naturally. Implementing this method allows the phlebotomist to maintain a respectful environment that aligns with healthcare protocols regarding patient privacy and comfort, ensuring that the patient is the focal point of the care provided.