Question

A PCT is performing a venipuncture to collect a blood specimen for a patient. Which of the following actions should the technician take to reduce risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens?

Answer 1

To reduce the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens during venipuncture, a PCT should practice hand hygiene, wear disposable gloves, utilize safety-engineered needles, avoid recapping needles, dispose of sharps immediately, maintain a sterile field, and properly dispose of contaminated materials.

Step-by-step explanation:

To reduce the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens during venipuncture, a Patient Care Technician (PCT) should follow these steps:

• Thoroughly wash hands both before and after the procedure.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable gloves.
• Use safety-engineered needles that have a mechanism to protect against needlestick injuries.
• Make sure to never recap a needle. If recapping is absolutely necessary, use the one-handed scoop technique to avoid accidental needlesticks.
• Dispose of all sharp objects in a puncture-resistant sharps container immediately after use.
• Follow proper aseptic technique to maintain a sterile field.
• After the procedure, dispose of gloves and other contaminated materials in a biohazard waste container.

If an exposure occurs, it is critical to follow the facility's protocol for post-exposure management.