PROCEDURE 64 • Knowledge of aseptic and sterile technique is necessary. • Knowledge of the vascular anatomy and physiology is needed. • Understanding of gas exchange and acid-base balance is necessary. • Technique for specimen collection and labeling should be understood. • Principles of hemodynamic monitoring are necessary. • Knowledge about the care of patients with arterial catheters (see Procedure 62) and stopcock manipulation (see Procedure 76) is needed. • Understanding of the closed arterial line blood sampling system is necessary. • Closed blood sampling systems provide the opportunity to reinfuse the blood to the patient after the laboratory sample is obtained to help reduce the risk of nosocomial anemia.3,7,10,14,15 • Appropriate blood specimen tubes (or arterial blood gas [ABG] kit) • Labels with the patient’s name and appropriate identifying data • Laboratory form and specimen labels • Goggles or fluid shield face mask • Needleless blood sampling access device • Extra blood specimen tube (for discard) • Sterile nonvented cap or needleless cap Additional equipment as needed includes the following: • Verify correct patient with two identifiers. Rationale: Prior to performing a procedure, the nurse should ensure the correct identification of the patient for the intended intervention. • Ensure that the patient and family understand preprocedural teaching. Answer questions as they arise, and reinforce information as needed. Rationale: Understanding of previously taught information is evaluated and reinforced. • Expose the stopcock to be used for blood sampling, and position the patient’s extremity so that the site can easily be accessed. Rationale: This prepares the site for blood withdrawal.
Blood Sampling from an Arterial Catheter
PREREQUISITE NURSING KNOWLEDGE
EQUIPMENT
PATIENT ASSESSMENT AND PREPARATION
Patient Preparation