A nurse is preparing to draw a blood specimen for D-dimer using a butterfly collection device.No other laboratory specimens are ordered.Which step is necessary to ensure an accurate result?
A)Collect blood in an extra red-top tube prior to collecting the blood for the D-dimer.
B)Ensure that the tourniquet is in place for at least 2 minutes before collecting the specimen.
C)Fill the tube approximately half full to avoid over-diluting the specimen.
D)Shake the specimen vigorously to increase hemolysis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Collecting blood in an extra red-top tube prior to collecting the blood for the D-dimer ensures that the specimen is free from any contaminants that could affect the accuracy of the result. This is a standard practice to follow before collecting any lab specimens. The other options (B, C, and D) are not relevant or appropriate for ensuring an accurate D-dimer result.

A Nurse Is Preparing to Draw a Blood Specimen for D-Dimer