What is the first step in the phlebotomy procedure?

The first step in the phlebotomy procedure is identifying and properly verifying the patient. This step is crucial because ensuring the correct identity of the patient helps prevent mix-ups and inaccuracies in patient care and lab results. It is essential to confirm the patient's identity through methods such as asking for their name and date of birth and cross-referencing this information with their medical records or wristbands.

Accurate patient identification lays the foundation for all subsequent steps in the procedure, enabling the phlebotomy technician to proceed with confidence that they are performing the blood draw on the correct individual. Without this verification, the risk of errors increases significantly, potentially leading to incorrect diagnoses or inappropriate treatments based on faulty lab results.

This initial verification process is also in alignment with established patient safety protocols, highlighting the importance of safeguarding patient information and ensuring the integrity of the medical process. Given its significance, this step precedes any physical actions like preparing the site, collecting samples, or labeling, which all presuppose accurate patient identification.