How long must the phlebotomist wait after stopping an I.V. before drawing blood?

The correct response is based on the need to ensure that the blood sample obtained is not influenced by the intravenous (I.V.) fluids that may still be present in the patient's system. It is recommended that a phlebotomist wait at least 15 minutes after discontinuing an I.V. before drawing blood. This wait period allows the I.V. fluids to clear from the bloodstream, minimizing the risk of dilution and ensuring that the collected sample reflects the patient’s true blood composition rather than being affected by the infusion.

This standard practice is important for maintaining the integrity of laboratory tests, as I.V. fluids can introduce additional substances or alter the concentration of analytes in the blood, leading to potentially inaccurate test results. It’s also important for the phlebotomist to be aware of the type of fluid administered and the potential impact it may have on the specific tests being conducted.

The other options represent shorter waits, which would not sufficiently allow for the clearance of the I.V. fluids, potentially compromising the results of the blood draw. Therefore, adhering to a 15-minute wait time is crucial for ensuring accurate and reliable diagnostic testing.