Final answer:
The correct action when a phlebotomist notices a cracked glass collection tube is to stop using it, safely dispose of it, and use a new intact tube for the blood specimen, while adhering to safety protocols such as wearing gloves.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a phlebotomist notices that the glass collection tube is cracked while collecting a blood specimen, the correct action would be to discontinue using the cracked tube immediately. This is because a cracked tube can lead to contamination of the sample, erroneous test results, or pose a safety hazard due to the risk of injury from broken glass. Instead, they should safely dispose of the cracked tube following the laboratory's safety protocols and use a new, intact tube to collect the specimen. For safety, the phlebotomist should always wear protective equipment such as gloves when handling blood samples and broken glass.
Within the context of the lab safety rules provided, the phlebotomist's actions align with being responsible for their own safety and that of others, not touching broken glass with bare hands, and adhering to proper laboratory conduct by not using compromised equipment.