Final answer:
The phlebotomist must conduct a quality control check using control solutions, calibrate the instrument, perform a function check, and ensure all supplies are ready and not expired before performing ancillary blood glucose testing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before performing ancillary blood glucose testing, the phlebotomist must ensure that the instrument is operating properly. To do this, the following steps should be followed:
- Conduct a quality control check using test reagents or control solutions to confirm the device provides accurate readings.
- Verify that the machine is calibrated appropriately.
- Perform a function check of the instrument to detect any possible issues with the equipment before the test is started.
- Ensure that all necessary supplies, such as test cards or strips, are available and not expired.
It is also essential to confirm that the patient's identification is correct and that any collected specimens are properly labeled with the patient's name to prevent errors. In addition, the phlebotomist should be aware of the specific glucose measurement technology used, such as reflectometric hexokinase method or glucose oxidase-colorimetric reaction, which are common in modern electronic gadgets for estimating blood glucose levels.