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A phlebotomy technician is performing a venipuncture for a patient who begins to seize. Which of the following actions should the technician take ?

A. Insert a tongue depressor into the patient's mouth.
B. Place the patient in the prone position.
C. Discontinue the draw.
D. Restrain the patient.

User Redu
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1 Answer

7 votes

Final answer:

The phlebotomy technician should discontinue the venipuncture when the patient begins to seize, to ensure patient safety and prevent potential injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a phlebotomy technician is performing a venipuncture and the patient begins to seize, the technician should discontinue the draw. Inserting a tongue depressor into the patient's mouth or restraining the patient are not recommended actions, as they could cause injury to the patient or to the technician. The patient should not be placed in the prone position, as this could obstruct their airway or put them in a more dangerous position during a seizure. The technician's priority is to ensure the safety of the patient, which includes stopping the blood draw and clearing the area to prevent injury. Following protocol for seizure management, such as protecting the patient's head, removing nearby objects that could harm them, and monitoring the patient until the seizure stops, is crucial.

User Gaetan
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