NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What should a phlebotomist do if there is no wristband on a patient's wrist?

1. Draw from another area

2. Look for identification

3. Notify the nurse immediately

4. Proceed with the draw

The correct answer is: Notify the nurse immediately

When a phlebotomist encounters a patient without a wristband, the appropriate action is to notify the nurse immediately. The wristband serves a critical role in patient identification, ensuring that the right patient is matched with the right tests and procedures. Not having a wristband raises significant concerns about the patient's identity and the potential for mislabeling specimens, which can lead to serious medical errors. In this context, informing the nurse is essential because they can take the necessary steps to verify the patient's identity, which may include locating another form of identification or issuing a new wristband. Accurate patient identification is paramount in a medical setting, and the involvement of a nurse helps to maintain protocol and patient safety standards. While other options might seem relevant, such as looking for identification or drawing from another area, they do not address the primary concern of proper patient verification. Proceeding with the draw without confirming the patient's identity could lead to critical errors in treatment and diagnosis. Therefore, notifying the nurse is the best course of action in ensuring compliance with safety protocols and maintaining the integrity of patient care.