What is the proper procedure for collecting a blood sample?

The proper procedure for collecting a blood sample involves a few critical steps to ensure accuracy and safety. Identifying the patient is fundamental to confirm that the correct individual is receiving the procedure. This is crucial to prevent errors and mix-ups in sample collection.

Cleaning the site with an antiseptic is equally important. This step helps to minimize the risk of contamination and infection by removing bacteria and other potential pathogens from the skin surface. Proper antisepsis is a standard practice in phlebotomy that enhances patient safety and ensures the integrity of the sample collected, leading to accurate laboratory results.

Other options suggest practices that could compromise the quality of the sample or the safety of the patient, such as drawing blood without preparation, using inappropriate equipment, and conducting the procedure in an unsuitable environment. Each of these actions could lead to inaccurate results or complicate the patient's experience during the blood collection process.