Final answer:
A Certified Phlebotomy Technician must verify the quality of venipuncture supplies before a blood draw by checking expiration dates, ensuring correct labeling, and confirming the presence and functionality of all necessary equipment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before beginning a venipuncture to draw blood, a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPCT) must carry out a set of checks to ensure the quality and sterility of the supplies. This is critical for patient safety as well as the accuracy of test results. The CPCT should verify:
- The expiration dates and intact packaging of needles and other equipment to ensure they are sterile and safe for use.
- The correct labeling of specimen containers with the patient's name to avoid any mix-up with samples, which may lead to misdiagnosis or improper treatment.
- The presence and functionality of all required items such as needles, tubes, tourniquets, alcohol wipes, and bandages, thereby confirming that the procedure can be performed without interruptions.
Through a process similar to a pre-flight checklist used by airplane pilots, the CPCT should systematically review these aspects aloud with the team or individually to enhance focus and reduce the chances of skipping any vital step.