Question 82

Rotate the bevel of the needle.

When the second tube is attached and blood flow stops, the phlebotomist should rotate the bevel of the needle to help restore blood flow. This action can reposition the needle within the vein, potentially allowing blood to flow into the tube again.

A) Withdraw the needle completely.

Withdrawing the needle completely is not advisable as it may cause unnecessary discomfort to the patient and could result in a failed venipuncture. This action would eliminate the possibility of retrieving a blood sample from the vein, which is the primary goal of the procedure.

B) Rotate the bevel of the needle.

Rotating the bevel of the needle is an appropriate response when blood flow ceases after attaching a new tube. This maneuver can help find a better position within the vein and potentially restore blood flow into the tube, making it the correct choice in this scenario.

C) Increase tourniquet pressure.

Increasing tourniquet pressure is not recommended once blood flow has already been established, as it may lead to complications such as hemoconcentration or discomfort for the patient. Additionally, it could hinder blood flow rather than facilitate it.

D) Activate a new evacuated tube.

Activating a new evacuated tube without addressing the underlying issue of stopped blood flow may not resolve the problem. This action could lead to wasted materials and may require further attempts to obtain a sample, which could cause additional discomfort or complications for the patient.

Conclusion

In this scenario, rotating the bevel of the needle is the most effective action to take when blood flow stops after attaching the second tube. All other options either cause unnecessary discomfort, fail to address the issue, or may lead to complications, confirming that Option B is the only appropriate choice for restoring blood flow.