Patient PreparationQuestion 84 of 100
Midway through a draw an outpatient becomes pale, sweaty and says the room is spinning. What is the first action?
a.Hold an ammonia inhalant under the patient's nose
b.Continue the draw quickly before the patient faints
c.Release the tourniquet, remove the needle, and lower the patient's head while keeping the patient seated or supine
d.Leave the patient to get help from the front desk
Explanation
Presyncope is managed by immediately stopping the draw and removing the needle so an unconscious patient is not injured, then lowering the head or laying the patient flat to restore cerebral perfusion. Continuing the collection risks a fall with the needle in place. Ammonia inhalants are discouraged because they can trigger bronchospasm, and the patient must never be left alone.
Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- During a 3-hour glucose tolerance test the patient vomits 20 minutes after drinking the glucose solution. What is the correct action?
- A 9-year-old is brought for a blood draw by an adult neighbor with no documented authorization. What should the phlebotomist do?
- A competent adult inpatient refuses the ordered blood draw. What is the correct response?
- A swelling appears rapidly at the site while the tube is filling. What should the phlebotomist do?
- On needle insertion the patient reports sudden shooting, electric pain radiating to the hand. What should be done?
- Small red pinpoint spots appear on the arm under the tourniquet. What do they indicate?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Exam · How we review