Question

A medical assistant completes a blood collection using the evacuated system with a safety needle. The needle safety device is activated immediately following the collection. The needle is removed from the tube holder/adapter and discarded in a sharps container. Which of the following best describes the medical assistant's actions?

A. The medical assistant activated the needle safety device too soon, but removing the needle was acceptable.
B. The medical assistant activated the needle safety device too soon and the needle and tube holder/adapter should not have been separated.
C. The medical assistant activated the needle safety device appropriately and removing the needle was acceptable.
D. The medical assistant activated the needle safety device appropriately, but the needle and tube holder/adapter should not have been separated.

Answer 1

The medical assistant adhered to the safety guidelines by properly activating the safety device immediately after blood collection and correctly disposing of the needle, which is an appropriate action.

Step-by-step explanation:

The medical assistant's actions described are in line with the standard procedure for blood collection using the evacuated system with a safety needle. According to the guidelines, activating the needle safety device immediately after the collection is a critical step for ensuring both patient and healthcare worker safety. Moreover, removing the needle from the tube holder and disposing of it in a sharps container is an appropriate measure to prevent needlestick injuries and maintain a safe work environment.

Therefore, the appropriate response to the scenario provided is that the medical assistant activated the needle safety device appropriately and removing the needle was acceptable. However, it is important to note that the needle and tube holder/adapter should not have been separated. The needle safety device should only be activated after the needle has been properly disposed of to ensure complete safety.