Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

What information is required on a blood collection tube?

1. Patient's complete name

2. Patient's identification number

3. Date of collection

4. All the above

The correct answer is: All the above

The correct answer indicates that all listed pieces of information are essential for the proper labeling of a blood collection tube. Each element plays a critical role in ensuring accurate patient identification and sample integrity. The patient's complete name is crucial because it allows healthcare providers to associate the sample with the correct individual, helping to prevent mix-ups that could lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment. The patient's identification number is also important, especially in larger healthcare settings, where multiple patients may have similar names. This unique identifier helps streamline patient records and ensures that the test results are correctly attributed. The date of collection is necessary for tracking when the specimen was obtained. This information is vital for understanding the timing of the test in relation to the patient's treatment or condition, as well as for quality control and compliance with laboratory protocols. In summary, the requirement for all of this information on a blood collection tube safeguards the accuracy of laboratory testing and enhances patient safety, making the option that includes all elements the most comprehensive and correct choice.