The nurse has just obtained an arterial blood gas (ABG) sample and noticed that the blood is dark purplish-red. Which action is most appropriate?
A. Immerse the sampling syringe into an ice-filled cup for at least 5 minutes, and then observe for bright red coloration.
B. Immediately contact the health care provider and describe the color and consistency of the sample.
C. Discard the sample and attempt to obtain an arterial sample from the opposite radial artery.
D. Inform the laboratory that the sample is likely venous blood and request the test results be converted into arterial values.