American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) Phlebotomy Practice Exam

What should a phlebotomist do before and after venipuncture?

1. Wear gloves

2. Use alcohol pads

3. Wash hands

4. Document the procedure

The correct answer is: Wash hands

Washing hands before and after venipuncture is a critical practice in maintaining infection control and ensuring the safety of both the patient and the phlebotomist. Prior to the procedure, handwashing effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants, minimizing the risk of introducing pathogens into the patient's bloodstream during venipuncture. This establishes a clean environment for the procedure to take place. After completing the venipuncture, washing hands is equally important. It helps prevent the potential spread of pathogens to other patients or surfaces, maintaining a hygienic workspace and protecting the health of both the phlebotomist and others in the medical facility. This practice aligns with standard health and safety guidelines in phlebotomy and healthcare in general. While wearing gloves, using alcohol pads, and documenting the procedure are indeed essential practices in the field of phlebotomy, handwashing is foundational to effective infection control and should always be prioritized both before and after any procedure involving bodily fluids.