CPT (Certified Phlebotomy Technician) Practice Exam

If a name is not located on a requisition from an inpatient patient, what is the next best identifier?

1. A. Date of birth

2. B. Social Security Number

3. C. MRN (Medical record number)

4. D. Address

The correct answer is: C. MRN (Medical record number)

The Medical Record Number (MRN) serves as a unique identifier for a patient within a healthcare facility, making it an essential element in ensuring accurate patient identification. In facilities where patients have multiple identifiers, the MRN is particularly valuable because it is specifically linked to the patient's medical records and history. This unique number helps healthcare providers quickly access the appropriate records to ensure that the patient receives the correct care. Using the MRN is preferred over other identifiers such as date of birth, Social Security Number, or address primarily because it is specifically designed to minimize errors in patient identification. While date of birth can help verify identity, it is not unique, as multiple patients may share the same birth date. Similarly, while a Social Security Number might seem like a reliable identifier, it is not always available for all patients, and it introduces privacy concerns and risks in a healthcare setting. An address is also not unique, as many individuals may reside at the same location. In summary, selecting the MRN for patient identification is crucial as it directly correlates with the patient's own medical file, ensuring that healthcare providers can deliver accurate and tailored medical services.