ASCP Phlebotomy Technician Certification Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Study Guide for Success!

Labeling specimen tubes after the specimen is drawn is a crucial practice in phlebotomy. This ensures that there is no confusion or mix-up between the tube and the specimen collected. By labeling the tubes post-collection, the phlebotomist can accurately confirm the patient's information, specimen type, and collection details at the time the sample is acquired. This practice is essential to maintain the integrity of the sample and to prevent errors that could lead to incorrect testing or misdiagnosis.

Labeling before the specimen is drawn could increase the risk of errors, as the label might not accurately reflect the information corresponding to the collected specimen. Similarly, using adhesive labels only does not necessarily address the need for accurate, timely labeling, as both adhesive and non-adhesive labels can be used effectively when correctly applied after the specimen is obtained. Ignoring the patient's information compromises patient identification and could have serious implications for patient care. Therefore, labeling after collection is the best practice for ensuring accuracy in the laboratory process.