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Phlebotomist notices red spots. What is appropriate action?

User NGI
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Final answer:

The red streaks seen on the patient's skin are referred to as petechiae, which result from blood leaking from damaged vessels. Monitoring for redness, swelling, and pain is crucial as it can indicate infection, which requires medical attention and possible antibiotic treatment. Phlebotomists must be aware of such conditions and signs of complications during their practice.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term that refers to the red spots seen on the patient's skin is petechiae. These small red or purple spots typically result from blood leaking out of damaged vessels. Petechiae can indicate a number of conditions, including vasculitis, which can cause blood to leak from damaged vessels. It is important to watch for increased redness, swelling, and pain after a cut or abrasion has been cleaned and bandaged because these symptoms can signal an infection. An infection can lead to complications and needs to be treated properly, often with antibiotics, as seen with the patient Barbara who was treated with oxacillin for her infection.

Phlebotomy plays a critical role in the medical industry. Phlebotomists are trained to draw blood for various purposes, including testing, transfusions, and donations. They utilize techniques such as venipuncture, capillary sticks, and arterial sticks. It's essential for these professionals to have knowledge of potential skin conditions, such as petechiae, and to understand the importance of monitoring sites for signs of infection.

User Jeremy Zerr
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