Title: Sample Preparation and Handling
Course: Allied Health Assistant (Phlebotomy) > Section: Module 7

Introduction

This module probes the reasons why a sample could give inaccurate results and what can be done to provide an accurate result even if there is a delay in testing.  Without the proper sample preparation and handling, the most accurately collected blood sample could give invalid results.

Objectives

This module focuses on the following course Learning Outcomes:

Discuss phlebotomy in relation to the health care setting.
Demonstrate skills and knowledge necessary to perform phlebotomy.
Practice infection control following universal (standard) precautions.
Practice accepted procedures of transporting, accessioning and processing specimens.
Practice quality assurance and safety.

Lecture Notes

Sample Preparation and Handling – discusses the many different variables that can change lab values or result in invalid test results.  It discusses Pre-examination Variables that the Phlebotomist may have control over, such as correctly identifying the patient or leaving the tourniquet on too long, to the patient’s exercise level just prior to the blood draw.  It further discusses the order of collection and how that may adversely affect results as well as the handling of a sample that may require chilling or warming post draw.   Sample rejection, preparation and transportation are also discussed from the in-hospital perspective to the off-site testing perspective.

Readings

Chapter 10 Sample Preparation and Handling

Module 7 Sample Preparation and Handling Lecture Notes.pdf

Instructions

- Complete the Readings
- Respond to the Discussion Board Question
- Comment on at least 2 of your classmates Discussion Board posts
- Complete the Sample Rejection Activity