Phlebotomy Technician Practice Exam (NCPT/CPT)

What is the most important step in properly performing a venipuncture?

1. Identifying the patient

2. Washing hands

3. Using a new needle

4. Wearing gloves

The correct answer is: Identifying the patient

Properly identifying the patient is the most important step in performing a venipuncture because it ensures accuracy and safety. Identifying the patient helps to verify that the blood sample is being taken from the correct person and reduces the risk of infection or misdiagnosis. While washing hands, using a new needle, and wearing gloves are all important steps in performing a venipuncture, they are not the most crucial. Washing hands helps to prevent the spread of germs, but it is not specifically related to the accuracy or safety of the procedure. Using a new needle and wearing gloves help to minimize the risk of infection, but they do not address the potential risk of misdiagnosis. Therefore, identifying the patient is the most important step in properly performing a venipuncture.