Question 59

The phlebotomist should release the tourniquet and stop the draw.

When a hematoma develops at the site of a venous blood draw, it is essential for the phlebotomist to release the tourniquet and stop the blood draw immediately to prevent further complications.

A) observe the site to see whether the hematoma worsens.

While observing the site may provide some information about the condition, this option is not proactive. The development of a hematoma indicates that the procedure may have caused a complication, and it is critical to take immediate action rather than simply observing.

B) ask the patient to apply pressure to the area.

Asking the patient to apply pressure may be a step taken after stopping the draw, but it does not address the immediate necessity of halting the procedure. The primary responsibility of the phlebotomist is to ensure the safety of the patient by stopping the draw and releasing the tourniquet first.

C) release the tourniquet and stop the draw.

This is the correct action to take. Releasing the tourniquet alleviates any additional pressure that could exacerbate the hematoma, and stopping the blood draw prevents further injury to the vein and surrounding tissues.

D) call for a nurse and assess the patient's condition.

While it is important to assess the patient's condition and possibly notify a nurse, this option does not prioritize the immediate actions necessary to manage the situation effectively. The phlebotomist must first stop the draw and release the tourniquet before escalating the issue.

Conclusion

Releasing the tourniquet and stopping the draw is a critical response to the development of a hematoma, as it minimizes further damage and protects the patient's safety. Other options either delay necessary action or do not address the immediate need to stop the procedure, making option C the most appropriate choice in this scenario.