Title: Demonstrate safe positioning of patients during venipuncture.
Course: Medical Laboratory Technology I (14102-I) > Section: Understanding the Basics of Specimen Collection

Demonstration should include

- proper patient identification
- assessing patient status
- evaluating potential hazards to the patient
- choosing and applying appropriate transport methods
- choosing and applying appropriate transfer methods
- modifying positioning to accommodate patient status
- practicing preventive measures for disease transmission during equipment use
- applying appropriate principles of body mechanics without injury to the patient or self
- focusing on the maintenance of patient well-being at all times
- using appropriate patient interaction skills during specimen collection.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What injuries might a patient sustain in the event of syncope? How can such injuries be prevented?
- What is the effect on blood circulation if a patient’s arm is elevated during collection? Why is this important in venipuncture?
- Why is the positioning of the patient important during venipuncture?
- What communication techniques can be applied to reduce patient anxiety?
- What types of injuries might a patient sustain from the prolonged use of the tourniquet?