You have entered a patient's room and explained that you need to draw blood, and the patient repeatedly refuses. What should you do?
A) Attempt to draw it anyhow because the physician ordered the test.
B) Call for another phlebotomist to help you convince the patient.
C) Take the request form back to the laboratory after you have finished drawing your other patients.
D) Notify the patient's physician according to the institution's written policies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is important to respect a patient's decision to refuse any type of medical procedure, including blood draws. The best course of action would be to notify the patient's physician according to the institution's policies, who can then discuss the importance of the test with the patient and come to a mutual decision. It is important to document the patient's refusal and the actions taken in the medical record. It is not appropriate to attempt to draw the blood against the patient's will or to try to convince them with another phlebotomist, as this violates the patient's right to autonomy and informed consent. Taking the request form back to the laboratory without drawing the blood is also not appropriate, as it leaves the patient's medical needs unaddressed, and could potentially delay necessary treatment.

You Have Entered a Patient's Room and Explained That You