Question

While verifying the patient identity, the phlebotomist notices the patient has stopped breathing. A pulse is checked; no pulse. What is the next step?

Answer 1

The next step for the phlebotomist when a patient has stopped breathing and has no pulse is to immediately begin CPR, following the guidelines for proper hand placement and chest compression technique.

Step-by-step explanation:

Upon discovering that the patient has stopped breathing and has no pulse, the next step for the phlebotomist or any healthcare provider is to begin Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). CPR is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped.

According to FIGURE 19.3, proper positioning of the hands on the sternum to perform CPR would be between the lines at T4 and T9, applying pressure to the sternum to maintain the flow of blood until the heart resumes beating. This is consistent with current resuscitation guidelines, which emphasize immediate chest compressions for a person who is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

Answer 2

When a patient has stopped breathing and has no pulse, the phlebotomist should promptly begin Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and activate the emergency response system. CPR involves proper hand placement on the sternum to circulate blood, and it's crucial to act without delay. In addition, a call to emergency services and continuous monitoring with medical equipment are necessary steps if the patient's condition improves.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a phlebotomist discovers that a patient has stopped breathing and has no pulse, the next step is to begin Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). This emergency procedure is critical in attempting to restore breathing and circulation. According to the standards, proper positioning of the hands to perform CPR on an adult is between the lines at T4 and T9 on the sternum, to effectively circulate blood by applying pressure to the heart. It is imperative to act quickly, as brain damage or death can occur within minutes due to oxygen deprivation.

Once CPR is initiated, someone should call emergency medical services (EMS) immediately, if they haven't been called already. In a medical setting such as a hospital, the phlebotomist should also activate the emergency response system by calling a "code" or using another established protocol, which alerts medical professionals to the emergency so that advanced life support can be provided as quickly as possible.

Throughout the emergency, the health care professionals should also have access to a pulse oximeter and other equipment to monitor the patient's vital signs and oxygen levels, if the patient regains a pulse and resumes breathing. The objective of these measures is to maintain life and prevent further harm until professional medical treatment can be rendered.