What should a phlebotomist avoid doing if a patient has had a mastectomy?

A phlebotomist should avoid drawing blood from the arm associated with a patient's mastectomy due to the risk of complications. After a mastectomy, lymph nodes may be removed from the underarm area, which can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid. Drawing blood from that arm can exacerbate this condition, increase the risk of infection, and cause further complications for the patient.

The rationale behind this practice is rooted in patient safety and the understanding of potential complications that can arise post-surgery. Selecting an alternate site, typically the opposite arm or, if necessary, another appropriate site, ensures that the phlebotomist is providing care that prioritizes the patient's current medical condition and avoids any actions that could lead to adverse effects.

In contrast, using a larger needle, performing a fingerstick, or taking vital signs are generally acceptable practices and do not specifically pose the same risks related to the lymphatic system as drawing blood from the affected arm does. Thus, the focus on avoiding blood draws from the side of the mastectomy is critical for the safety and well-being of the patient.