81. A phlebotomist is preparing to collect a blood specimen from a patient who has self-reported needle phobia. Which of the following actions should the phlebotomist take?
Answer: B
Instructing the patient to lie supine during the procedure is the appropriate action.
Lying supine can help reduce anxiety and the risk of fainting in patients with needle phobia by providing a stable and safe position. This approach can also enhance blood flow to the site of venipuncture, making the procedure easier for both the phlebotomist and the patient.
A) Encourage the patient to chew gum during the procedure.
Encouraging the patient to chew gum is not a recognized method for managing needle phobia. While gum chewing may help alleviate anxiety for some individuals, it does not address the physiological responses related to fear of needles, nor does it provide a supportive position that can mitigate fainting risks.
B) Instruct the patient to lie supine during the procedure.
Instructing the patient to lie supine is a valid approach when dealing with needle phobia. This position can help the patient feel more secure, reduce anxiety, and prevent complications such as fainting, making it easier to collect the blood specimen safely and effectively.
C) Place the patient's elbow joint in 90° of flexion.
While flexing the elbow joint may assist in positioning for venipuncture, it does not specifically address the patient's needle phobia. This action alone does not provide the necessary comfort or support to help alleviate anxiety associated with the procedure.
D) Warm the site for 10 min before venipuncture.
Warming the site can improve blood flow and make venipuncture easier; however, it does not directly address the patient's psychological fear of needles. Therefore, this action is less effective in managing needle phobia compared to lying supine.
Conclusion
Instructing the patient to lie supine is the most effective strategy for addressing needle phobia, as it provides psychological comfort and reduces the risk of fainting. Other options may not adequately address the patient's fear or physiological responses and are therefore less suitable in this context. Overall, the approach taken should prioritize patient comfort and safety during the blood collection process.