Which strategy is likely to yield the highest impact in reducing patient identification errors in lab specimen collection?

Utilizing barcode scanners to generate a specimen label at the bedside is likely to have the highest impact on reducing patient identification errors in lab specimen collection due to several key factors.

First, this strategy leverages technology to create a more reliable and consistent method of labeling specimens. By generating labels at the bedside, the chance of errors arising from transcribing information or relying on memory is significantly diminished. The barcode system ensures that the patient’s information is accurately captured in real time, directly linking the specimen to the correct patient.

Additionally, barcode scanners help mitigate human errors associated with manual processes. They facilitate immediate verification of the patient's identity by scanning identification wristbands or other identifiers, thereby reinforcing accuracy and accountability in the specimen collection process. This approach also provides a clear, organized workflow that can enhance communication among healthcare providers regarding patient safety.

In contrast, while the other options may have some positive impact, they do not provide the same level of systematic error reduction. For instance, educating nurses and phlebotomists to ask about patient identifiers remains prone to human error and may not consistently prevent mistakes. Revising the process to allow only one specimen label on the tray at a time can help, but it does not directly address the fundamental issue of ensuring accurate patient identification.