Where is the best place to collect a protime specimen from a patient with IVs in both arms?

Collecting a protime specimen from below one of the IVs is the best practice in this scenario. The primary reason for this is to avoid contamination of the blood sample with intravenous fluids, which could potentially alter the test results. By collecting blood below the IV site, you ensure that the sample reflects the patient's actual coagulation status rather than being influenced by the substances running through the IV.

Additionally, drawing from above an IV site might lead to a sample that is improperly diluted with IV fluids, leading to inaccurate laboratory results. While collecting from a wrist could be an option, it may not be the most appropriate due to the potential for veins to be more difficult to access in some patients. A finger prick could provide an alternative option for certain tests, particularly in pediatrics or when only small sample volumes are needed, but it is generally not suitable for protime testing, which typically requires a larger blood volume drawn from a vein.

In summary, obtaining the specimen below the IV site is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the protime test results while minimizing the risk of contamination from the IV fluids.