Final answer:
When a specimen is mislabeled, the proper course of action is to reject it and request a new collection. It is crucial to follow correct labeling protocols to ensure patient safety and the reliability of blood sample analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct course of action when encountering a specimen mislabeling issue is to reject the specimen and request a recollection (c. Reject the specimen and request a recollection). Relabeling the tube as per the nurse's instructions could lead to potential errors in patient identification, which is a critical factor for ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Moreover, proper specimen labeling protocol must be followed to maintain the integrity of the blood sample process and patient safety. It's essential to prioritize correct identification of samples to avoid any medical errors, which could have serious consequences.