Who prepares blood smears?

Who prepares blood smears?

• A. Nurse
• B. Laboratory technician
• C. Phlebotomist
• D. Physician

Answer: (C)

Preparing a blood smear is a pre-analytical step done right after blood is drawn. The phlebotomist, trained in specimen collection and handling, is typically responsible for creating the smear by spreading a drop of blood on a slide, then having it fixed and stained for microscopic review. This role fits their focus on obtaining and preserving a quality specimen, ensuring proper technique to avoid artifacts and clots. While nurses may collect blood and lab technicians perform the analysis, the task of making the smear is most closely aligned with the phlebotomist’s responsibilities, which is why this choice is best.

Preparing a blood smear is a pre-analytical step done right after blood is drawn. The phlebotomist, trained in specimen collection and handling, is typically responsible for creating the smear by spreading a drop of blood on a slide, then having it fixed and stained for microscopic review. This role fits their focus on obtaining and preserving a quality specimen, ensuring proper technique to avoid artifacts and clots. While nurses may collect blood and lab technicians perform the analysis, the task of making the smear is most closely aligned with the phlebotomist’s responsibilities, which is why this choice is best.