Final answer:
To obtain a blood culture specimen from an adult patient, disinfect the skin, use aseptic techniques to draw blood, label the specimen properly, wear gloves and goggles for safety, and transport the specimen promptly to the laboratory.
Step-by-step explanation:
When obtaining a blood culture specimen from an adult patient, several important steps should be followed to ensure that the specimen is collected safely and properly, which can affect the accuracy of test results. Firstly, it is essential to disinfect the patient's skin with an appropriate antiseptic to prevent contamination of the specimen with bacteria from the skin. Next, blood should be drawn using aseptic techniques, usually into bottles containing culture media that support the growth of potential bacteria present in the blood. It is important to label the specimen correctly with the patient's information and the date of collection. Gloves should always be worn during the procedure, and all safety measures, such as wearing goggles and disinfecting the work area, should be observed to maintain a safe environment. Lastly, the specimen should be transported to the laboratory promptly to ensure the viability of any potential microbes.