Question

"During a routine venipuncture, when should the phlebotomist request that the patient 'release the fist'?"

a. When the procedure is finished, after the tourniquet has been removed.
b. When the last tube has been filled, before the tourniquet is removed.
c. When blood enters the first tube being drawn.
d. When the procedure is finished, and the bleeding has stopped.

Answer 1

During a routine venipuncture, the phlebotomist should request that the patient 'release the fist' when the last tube has been filled, before the tourniquet is removed.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a routine venipuncture, the phlebotomist should request that the patient 'release the fist' when the last tube has been filled, before the tourniquet is removed. This is important because releasing the fist before removing the tourniquet helps prevent excessive bleeding and minimizes the risk of hematoma formation. Once the tourniquet is removed, the phlebotomist should apply pressure to the puncture site to stop any bleeding.