What should a phlebotomist do if a patient has not followed pre-test guidelines?

If a patient has not followed pre-test guidelines, it is essential for the phlebotomist to cancel the test and inform the physician. This approach maintains the integrity of the test results and adheres to established protocols, which are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Pre-test guidelines are designed to ensure that the patient's medical condition, diet, medication, and other factors do not compromise the results of the test.

By canceling the test, the phlebotomist ensures that the patient can be adequately prepared for retesting at a later date, which may involve following specific dietary restrictions or medication adjustments. Informing the physician is critical as they can then decide on the next steps regarding patient care. This focus on proper procedure helps to prevent unnecessary confusion, delays in diagnosis or treatment, and the potential for misinterpretation of test results.

Moving forward without addressing the issue, altering the test, or making assumptions about the patient’s readiness can lead to incorrect results, which could have significant implications for diagnosis and treatment plans.