Diagnostic Test and Nurse Responsibility
What is the nurse's primary responsibility before completing a diagnostic test?
First, VERIFY your order!
Why do nurses wear gloves during specimen collection and handling?
Because universal precautions protect the nurse and patient, and the nurse wants to limit exposure to blood borne pathogens.
Which urine method is used most often for urinalysis collection?
Midstream clean-catch.
What is venipuncture used for?
To collect blood for diagnostic testing.
What does an ECG measure?
The electrical impulse of the heart.
Why do you assess for allergies before certain tests?
Some testing procedures use things like iodine and this can cause severe reactions.
What information must be on EVERY specimen label?
The test that is ordered, patient identifiers (name, birthdate, MR #), the date and time of collection and the collector's initials.
What can we detect with a stool specimen?
Why should a nurse avoid drawing blood from the arm with an infusing IV?
The sample could become diluted or contaminated with the infusion.
Why must electrodes be placed on clean, dry skin?
To ensure adequate conduction of the electrical signals.
When assisting with a bedside diagnostic exam, what should the nurse do?
Prepare all supplies and monitor the patient.
Why is aseptic technique important in specimen collection?
It prevents contamination and false results.
How should sputum be collected for best accuracy?
If the patient is able to cough up their sputum, collect it first thing in the morning before eating or drinking.
What should the nurse do if the patient feels faint during a venipuncture?
Stop, lower the head, monitor vitals.
Which patient instructions should be given during the ECG?
Lie still, do not talk, do not cross legs.
What documentation is required after a diagnostic procedure?
The patient condition before, during, and after as well as any adverse reactions and specimens collected.
When should a specimen be delivered to lab?
As soon as possible after collection. If there are necessary delays, ensure the specimen is stored according to lab policy.
What happens if there is saliva in a sputum sample?
It will have to be collected again. If the patient is unable to provide a sample without saliva, suctioning may be necessary.
What is the vacutainer?
Used to draw multiple samples with just one needle stick.
What should the nurse do before performing the ECG?
Verify the order, bring the equipment to the bedside, explain the procedure to the patient.
What testing does not necessarily require informed consent?
Any test that is routine and non-invasive is usually okay to complete just with verbal consent.
Explain things in simple terms and keep child development in mind.
Have the patient have a bowel movement into a collection device, use disposable tongue depressors to move the material into the collection container.
What should the nurse ensure is released before leaving the patient's bedside?
The tourniquet!
If the ECG shows an abnormal rhythm, what should the nurse do next?
Notify the provider immediately.