Final answer:
When collecting blood samples to track medication levels, proper identification, sample collection, tube selection, centrifugation, labeling, and preparation are key. Correct labeling and procedure confirmation, as well as understanding specific tests such as blood typing and glucose level measurements, are crucial for accurate analysis and patient safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When preparing to collect blood samples to track a patient's medication levels, it is crucial to follow proper procedures to ensure accurate results and safety. Firstly, verify the patient's identity and the test ordered. Use the correct type of collection tube, such as tubes containing lithium heparin or K2EDTA, depending on the analysis needed. These additives prevent the blood from clotting and preserve the sample in the desired state.
Once the blood is drawn, it should be centrifuged to separate plasma or serum from the blood cells. In some cases, plasma samples are quenched with methanol to prepare for analysis. It is important to correctly label all samples with the patient's information to prevent any mix-ups. Depending on the procedure, a test card, patient serum sample, and bottle of test "reagent" might be required for further testing, such as blood typing, or to check the presence of certain antibodies as with hemolytic anemia.
In the instance of blood typing, when both anti-A and anti-B antibodies cause agglutination, this indicates the patient has AB blood type, which is a normal response and not a technician error. When serum is obtained for analysis, it refers to plasma with clotting factors removed, and this is commonly used to measure various substance levels, including the levels of glucose in the blood.
It is also important that the nurse or medical professional confirms the name of the procedure, ensures that samples are correctly labeled, and checks for any equipment issues. In emergency situations where immediate transfusion is necessary, such as life-threatening hemorrhage, cross matching may be bypassed, and type O blood may be used.