What is the preferred site for a blood specimen collection in a client with an IV catheter in the basilic vein of the right forearm?

When collecting a blood specimen from a patient who has an intravenous (IV) catheter, it is important to avoid using the same arm or area where the IV is located to prevent contamination and obtain accurate results. The basilic vein of the right forearm is where the IV catheter is placed, making it an unsuitable site for blood collection.

Choosing the left forearm allows for blood collection away from the IV site, minimizing the risk of dilution or contamination from the IV fluids infused through the catheter. Furthermore, blood drawn from an arm without an IV catheter is less likely to have altered composition or other artifacts that could arise from proximity to IV therapy.

This choice effectively addresses the need for accurate and uncontaminated samples during blood testing while ensuring patient safety and comfort.