Challenge Your Exam Readiness With Our Free Phlebotomy Practice Questions

In emergency settings, institutions assign a unique temporary name and medical record number (MRN) printed on a wristband. All initial specimens must be labeled to exactly match that band—no nicknames, placeholders, or room numbers. Option B preserves the positive identification chain until formal identification is established. Substituting “John Doe,” using the room number, or leaving fields blank undermines traceability and risks wrong-patient errors. As identity is confirmed, the health information system merges temporary and permanent identities; laboratories maintain audit trails linking results across the transition. Blood bank may require repeat specimens when identity changes. Phlebotomists must verify the wristband at the bedside, label immediately after draw, and document time/collector ID. This disciplined approach ensures legal defensibility and patient safety during the chaotic trauma intake process.