Which important step should be taken before performing a venipuncture?

Verifying the patient's identity is a critical step before performing a venipuncture to ensure that the correct individual is receiving the procedure. This step helps prevent errors in patient care, such as drawing blood from the wrong patient, which could lead to misdiagnosis or mistreatment. Implementing proper identification protocols often involves checking the patient’s name and date of birth against their identification and the lab requisition form.

Ensuring the patient's identity not only promotes safety but also builds trust with the patient, reinforcing their confidence in the healthcare process. By maintaining strict adherence to identification protocols, phlebotomy technicians can uphold ethical standards and contribute to quality patient care.