ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) Phlebotomy Technician Certification Practice Exam

The appropriate response when a patient is experiencing syncope during a blood draw is to stop the procedure and lay the patient down. This is crucial for several reasons.

When a patient loses consciousness or feels faint, it indicates that their brain is not receiving sufficient blood flow, often due to a sudden drop in blood pressure or other factors associated with the stress of the procedure. By laying the patient down, the blood supply to the brain is better maintained, which can help prevent a complete loss of consciousness and mitigate any potential injuries from falling.

Additionally, ensuring the patient's comfort and safety is paramount, and this approach allows for monitoring their condition effectively. As the blood flow to the brain stabilizes, the patient is less likely to experience any serious complications related to fainting, such as falls or further injury.

Improving their condition takes precedence, and other responses—such as continuing the procedure or applying more pressure on the venipuncture site—may exacerbate the patient's situation or lead to greater distress. Canceling the procedure immediately, while it may seem appropriate, does not address the immediate need for medical intervention during a syncope episode.