What is the primary purpose of a requisition form in phlebotomy?

The primary purpose of a requisition form in phlebotomy is to ensure correct processing of samples and identification of patients. This form serves as a critical communication tool between the healthcare provider and the laboratory. It contains essential details such as the patient's demographic information, the specific tests requested, and the clinical context for why those tests are being performed.

Accurate identification is vital in phlebotomy to avoid mix-ups, ensure that the right tests are performed on the correct patient, and ultimately safeguard patient safety. The requisition form provides a legal and clinical basis for processing the sample, helping to prevent errors that could lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment. Thus, it plays an integral role in the quality of care.

While documenting personal patient information and informing patients about procedure risks are important in the healthcare process, they are secondary functions of the requisition form compared to its primary role in sample processing and patient identification. Additionally, although listing available tests could be useful, it does not encompass the core purpose of the requisition form in phlebotomy practice.