A medical assistant, Phil, is collecting blood for a multiple test draw from an older adult. After switching a filled container for the next tube in the order, Phil notices a hematoma quickly forming under the skin next to the needle insertion site. Phil is so surprised by how fast it is growing that he has forgotten how he should respond! Can you help Phil?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a hematoma develops while collecting a blood specimen, the proper response is to loosen the tourniquet, remove the needle, and apply pressure to the site. Hematomas are more common in older adults and caused by blood leaking out of the vessel under the skin. Hematomas form when the needle pierces through the entire vessel, or-in Phil's case-when the needle dislodges during a collection tube exchange. Older adults are prone to hematomas because of the aging process; they have less subcutaneous tissue and thinner skin and vessel walls. A hematoma will result in bruising.

A Medical Assistant, Phil, Is Collecting Blood for a Multiple