American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) Phlebotomy Practice Exam

How should a phlebotomist accommodate a female patient who has never had her blood drawn before?

1. Allow her to lie down flat

2. Encourage her to look away

3. Sit in a chair with arm support

4. Have her sit cross-legged

The correct answer is: Sit in a chair with arm support

Accommodating a female patient who has never had her blood drawn before is important to ensure her comfort and reduce anxiety. Having her sit in a chair with arm support is beneficial because it provides stability and a relaxed posture, which can help prevent fainting or feeling lightheaded during the procedure. Sitting provides a secure environment for the patient, and arm support allows for easy access to the veins for blood collection. This position can also help the patient feel more in control and less apprehensive. Other options, such as lying flat or sitting cross-legged, do not provide the same level of support and control. While encouraging the patient to look away may help with anxiety, it doesn't directly address the physical aspects of the blood draw, such as ensuring the arm is properly positioned for effective access to the veins. Therefore, sitting in a chair with arm support is the most appropriate and supportive choice for a patient undergoing their first blood draw.