Final answer:
When collecting a blood specimen for culture, it is important for the nurse to follow proper procedures to ensure accuracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When collecting a blood specimen for culture from a patient hospitalized for pneumonia, the nurse should follow proper procedures to ensure an accurate result. The nurse should:
- Ensure that the needle, sponge, and instrument counts are complete (or not applicable)
- Check that the specimen is correctly labeled, including with the patient's name
- Address any issues with equipment
By following these steps, the nurse can minimize the risk of contamination and ensure the validity of the culture results.
Learn more about blood specimen collection