45. A phlebotomist is obtaining a blood specimen from a patient who is suspected of having a Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Which of the following pieces of equipment is required
Answer: D
N95 respirator
An N95 respirator is required when obtaining a blood specimen from a patient suspected of having a Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection due to the airborne transmission risk associated with tuberculosis. This protective equipment helps ensure the safety of the phlebotomist by filtering out airborne particles, including bacteria.
A) Nonlatex tourniquet
While a nonlatex tourniquet is commonly used in phlebotomy to restrict blood flow and make veins more visible, it does not provide any protection against airborne pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Therefore, it is not a necessary piece of equipment in this specific context.
B) Sterile gloves
Sterile gloves are important for preventing contamination of the blood specimen and protecting against bloodborne pathogens; however, they do not protect against the inhalation of airborne pathogens like tuberculosis. Thus, while they are essential for general phlebotomy practice, they do not address the specific risk posed by a suspected TB infection.
C) Face shield
A face shield can offer some protection against splashes and droplets, but it is not sufficient on its own for airborne precautions needed with tuberculosis. An N95 respirator is specifically designed to filter out airborne particles, making it the necessary choice in this situation.
D) N95 respirator
The N95 respirator is critical when performing procedures on patients suspected of having Mycobacterium tuberculosis because it is designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles, including those that may carry the bacteria. This protective measure is essential for the safety of healthcare workers in settings where tuberculosis is a concern.
Conclusion
The N95 respirator is definitively the correct choice for this scenario due to its unique capability to protect against airborne pathogens associated with tuberculosis. Other options, while beneficial in various contexts, do not provide the necessary airborne protection and therefore are insufficient for the specific risk posed by a suspected Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.