NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action when blood cultures are ordered?

1. Collect with non-sterile techniques

2. Clean the site thoroughly before collection

3. Use a small gauge needle

4. Draw them last in the order of draw

The correct answer is: Clean the site thoroughly before collection

When blood cultures are ordered, the most suitable action is to clean the site thoroughly before collection. This step is critical because blood cultures are meant to detect the presence of microorganisms in the blood, which can indicate an infection. Any contamination from the skin flora can lead to false-positive results. Therefore, proper antiseptic techniques, such as using an appropriate skin disinfectant and allowing it to dry, help ensure that the sample collected reflects the presence of pathogens in the bloodstream rather than contaminants from the skin. Thorough site cleaning involves using an antiseptic solution, typically chlorhexidine or alcohol, to adequately prepare the skin. This process is essential to maintain the integrity of the blood cultures and to ensure accurate diagnostic results, which can significantly influence patient care and treatment plans.