Quality Phlebotomy
What is the main goal of Quality Phlebotomy?
To ensure high-quality patient care and accurate specimen analysis.
What does QA stand for?
Quality Assurance
What type of variable occurs before specimen analysis?
Preanalytic variable.
What is assault in phlebotomy?
Threatening or attempting to touch a patient without consent.
What is confidentiality in phlebotomy?
The obligation to protect all patient information.
What organization mandates quality monitoring in patient care?
The Joint Commission(TJC)
What is the purpose of Quality Control (QC)?
To monitor the accuracy and reliability of procedures using quantitative methods.
Why is patient identification critical?
Incorrect ID can lead to injury or death.
What is battery in phlebotomy?
Intentional and wrongful physical contact without consent.
What should be done if a phlebotomist accidentally punctures themselves with a used needle?
Report it immediately and follow protocol for testing.
What is the goal of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)?
To achieve ongoing improvements in all aspects of service
How often should centrifuges be calibrated?
Every 3 months.
What factors can affect a patient’s test results?
Posture, exercise, stress, medications, and fasting state.
What are the four elements of negligence?
Duty, Dereliction, Injury, and Direct Cause.
What does liability insurance protect against?
Monetary damages from liability or malpractice suits.
What two programs make up Total Quality Management (TQM)?
Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA).
What is the purpose of a procedure manual?
To outline test principles, purposes, specimen requirements, and collection methods.
What is the correct procedure for labeling specimens?
Label immediately after collection, before leaving the patient’s side.
What is the standard of care in phlebotomy?
Accepted practices agreed upon by the medical community.
What does HIPAA protect?
Patient health information (PHI)
How does teamwork contribute to Quality Phlebotomy?
It reduces errors and waste while improving efficiency.
What is one key difference between QA and QC?
QC focuses on testing performance; QA ensures the overall quality of patient care through documentation and monitoring.
What is the time limit for separating serum from formed elements?
Within 2 hours of collection
What law ensures protection of patient information?
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
How can phlebotomists defend against malpractice claims?
Follow the standard of care, document procedures, and report incidents