Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Under what circumstances would it be appropriate to remove a patient's identification bracelet?

1. Never until patient is discharged from facility

2. During insertion of an IV catheter

3. Postoperatively when taken to the nursing unit

4. When patient is awake and alert and can verbally identify self

The correct answer is: When patient is awake and alert and can verbally identify self

Removing a patient's identification bracelet is appropriate when the patient is awake and alert and can verbally identify themselves. This situation indicates that the patient is fully aware of their identity, which helps ensure their safety and prevent any potential confusion with patient care or procedures. Verbal identification can be a reliable method of confirming a patient's identity, especially when the patient is capable of understanding and communicating their information effectively. Maintaining patient identification is a critical part of healthcare protocols to avoid errors in treatment or administration. However, if the patient can confidently identify themselves, the healthcare team can reasonably determine that the bracelet may no longer be necessary for that specific moment. When other options are considered, it’s vital to keep the identification bracelet throughout the admission process until discharge or until it is appropriate based on the patient’s condition. For instance, leaving it on during procedures like IV insertion ensures traceability and safety in care. Similarly, the bracelet is typically retained during the postoperative period when transferring to the nursing unit to prevent any identification errors. Therefore, the context of the patient's awareness and capacity to identify themselves is crucial in determining the appropriateness of removing their identification bracelet.