What should a phlebotomist do prior to performing a blood draw?

Prior to performing a blood draw, it is essential for a phlebotomist to verify patient identification and obtain consent. This step is crucial for several reasons. First, correct patient identification ensures that the right individual is receiving the procedure, thereby preventing potential mix-ups and ensuring the accuracy of the lab results. A phlebotomist typically checks the patient's identification wristband and asks for the patient's name and date of birth.

Additionally, obtaining consent is a fundamental aspect of patient care and respects the patient's autonomy. Consent confirms that the patient understands the procedure and agrees to it, which is critical in building trust and adhering to ethical guidelines in healthcare.

The other choices, while potentially relevant to the overall process of patient care, don’t address the immediate priorities necessary before conducting a blood draw, such as ensuring the correct person's blood is drawn and that they have consented to the procedure. For instance, checking a patient's insurance information and dietary habits may be important for overall patient management but are not prerequisites for the blood draw itself. Ensuring a sterile environment is also important but typically forms part of the preparation that occurs after patient identification and consent are confirmed.