Patient Identification and Preparation for Phlebotomy
Updated October 27, 2026
Patient Preparation is 20 of the 100 scored questions on the NHA CPT exam. Before a needle goes near the patient, the phlebotomist has to confirm who they are, what’s ordered and whether the patient is ready. Here’s what to know, followed by free practice questions. Always follow your facility’s policies.
Identification
- Use at least two identifiers, such as full name and date of birth, and compare them with the requisition and, for inpatients, the ID band.
- Ask the patient to state their name and date of birth, rather than asking “Are you John Smith?”
- Never draw if the identifiers don’t match or an inpatient has no ID band. Follow your facility’s policy to resolve it first.
Before the draw
- Check the requisition: tests ordered, special requirements, and timing.
- Confirm any fasting or timing requirements, and document if they weren’t met.
- Explain the procedure and get the patient’s consent. A patient has the right to refuse; if they do, don’t draw, and notify the nurse or provider as your policy directs.
- Ask about allergies (such as latex or adhesive) and any history of fainting.
- Position the patient seated in a chair with arm support, or lying down. Never draw a patient who is standing.
Special populations
| Patient | Tips |
|---|---|
| Children | Explain simply and honestly; use a parent’s help as policy allows; use smaller equipment |
| Older adults | Veins may be fragile and roll; use a gentle tourniquet and smaller needle as needed; allow extra time |
| Anxious patients | Talk them through it, have them lie down if they’ve fainted before |
Free practice questions
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What is the best way to confirm a patient's identity?Answer: CHaving the patient state their information avoids someone simply agreeing to a name. Compare at least two identifiers with the requisition and ID band.
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An inpatient has no ID band. What should the phlebotomist do?Answer: BNever draw without proper identification. Follow the facility's policy, which usually means having the nurse identify and band the patient first.
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A patient refuses to have blood drawn. What should the phlebotomist do?Answer: APatients have the right to refuse. Drawing without consent could be battery. Notify the appropriate person and document as your policy requires.
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In what position should a patient never be when blood is drawn?Answer: DA patient who faints while standing can fall and be badly hurt. Draw patients seated with arm support or lying down.
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An older adult has thin, fragile veins that roll. Which approach is most appropriate?Answer: BFragile veins can collapse or bruise easily. A gentle tourniquet, good anchoring and a smaller needle or butterfly help.
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A patient says they fainted during their last blood draw. What should the phlebotomist do?Answer: AA patient with a history of fainting should lie down to reduce the risk of falling and injury.
Pass your phlebotomy exam on the first try
- All 173 questions on safety, patient preparation, routine and special collections and processing
- An explanation for every answer, with the CLSI standard, OSHA rule or guideline behind it
- Unlimited full 100-question practice exams, with each domain in its real share