Before CBC Obtain a history of the patient's complaints, including a list of known allergen s, especially allergies or sensitivities to latex.

. Obtain a history of the patient's cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hematopoieti c, hepatobiliary, immune, and respiratory systems; symptoms; and results of prev iously performed laboratory tests and diagnostic and surgical procedures. Note any recent procedures that can interfere with test results. Obtain a list of the patient's current medications, including herbs, nutritional supplements, and nutraceuticals Review the procedure with the patient. Inform the patient that specimen collecti on takes approximately 5 to 10 min. Address concerns about pain and explain that there may be some discomfort during the venipuncture. Sensitivity to social and cultural issues, as well as concern for modesty, is im portant in providing psychological support before, during, and after the procedu re. There are no food, fluid, or medication restrictions unless by medical direction . During CBC If the patient has a history of allergic reaction to latex, avoid the use of equ ipment containing latex. Instruct the patient to cooperate fully and to follow directions. Direct the pat ient to breathe normally and to avoid unnecessary movement. Observe standard precautions, and follow the general guidelines. Positively iden tify the patient, and label the appropriate tubes with the corresponding patient demographics, date, and time of collection. Perform a venipuncture; collect the specimen in a 5-mL lavender-top (EDTA) tube. An EDTA Microtainer sample may be obtained from infants, children, and adults for whom venipuncture may not be fea sible. The specimen should be mixed gently by inverting the tube 10 times. The s pecimen should be analyzed within 24 hr when stored at room temperature or withi n 48 hr if stored at refrigerated temperature. If it is anticipated the specimen will not be analyzed within 24 hr, two blood smears should be made immediately after the venipuncture and submitted with the blood sample. Smears made from spe cimens older than 24 hr may contain an unacceptable number of misleading artifac tual abnormalities of the RBCs, such as echinocytes and spherocytes, as well as necrobiotic white blood cells. Remove the needle and apply direct pressure with dry gauze to stop bleeding. Obs erve/assess venipuncture site for bleeding or hematoma formation and secure gauz e with adhesive bandage. Promptly transport the specimen to the laboratory for processing and analysis. After CBC A report of the results will be sent to the requesting HCP, who will discuss the results with the patient. Depending on the results of this procedure, additional testing may be performed to evaluate or monitor progression of the disease process and determine the need for a change in therapy. Evaluate test results in relation to the patient's sym ptoms and other tests performed.