Title: Sample Considerations and Special Procedures
Course: Allied Health Assistant (Phlebotomy) > Section: Module 6

Introduction

This module provides insight into special considerations that must be taken for many sample collections.  Routine venous blood samples are not the only types of samples the phlebotomist will be required to collect.  Some samples will need to be collected at a specific time, after a special drink, or when nothing has been eaten.  The Phlebotomist needs knowledge of special procedures in blood collections to obtain the most accurate sample from a patient.  In addition to blood, the phlebotomist often needs to collect and assist the patient in collecting a variety of other samples.  Some of these include collecting culture samples and instructing the patient in the proper collection techniques for urine, feces, and other body fluids.

Objectives

Module 6 focuses on the following course Learning Outcomes:

Perform waived testing on blood and urine.

Prepare blood slides for differential blood count.

Plate microbiological specimen on appropriate media.

Report urine specific gravity, color and characteristics.

Perform centrifuge operation and maintenance.

Name (or identify) and explain the use of the common instruments/equipment found in the clinical laboratory.

Lecture Notes

Sample Considerations and Special Procedures – discusses different collection techniques and methods that may be required after the blood is collected such as making a slide for examination under the microscope.  It also discusses some of the pre-testing preparations that may be required by the patient in order to complete a test accurately such as drinking a glucose drink.  Performing a bleeding time test requires some special equipment and collecting blood cultures require special cleansing of the sites.  This chapter also discusses the collection of urine samples, feces samples, throat and sputum cultures, and semen samples by the phlebotomist.

Readings

Chapter 9 Sample Considerations and Special Procedures

Module 6 Drawing Special Types of Tests.pdf

Instructions

- Complete the Readings
- Respond to the Case Discussion
- Comment on at least 2 of your classmates Case Discussion
- Complete Exam 5