Final answer:
A phlebotomist should clean items contaminated by blood with a 1:10 dilution of bleach and water to prevent hospital-acquired infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prevent hospital-acquired infections, a phlebotomist should clean items that have been contaminated by blood with a 1:10 dilution of bleach and water. This means that for every 1 part of bleach, 10 parts of water should be used. Bleach is an effective disinfectant that can kill a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. Diluting the bleach helps to ensure that it is safe to use on surfaces without causing damage.