What is the first step in finding a vein for blood draw?

The first step in drawing blood correctly is to identify the appropriate veins to puncture. For adult patients, the most common and first choice is the median cubital vein in the antecubital fossa.

What is the very first thing you should do before performing a blood draw?

Before the draw

• Drink plenty of water before your appointment.
• Eat a healthy meal before you go.
• Wear a short-sleeved shirt or layers.
• Stopping taking aspirin at least two days before your blood draw if you’re donating platelets.

How do phlebotomist draw blood?

2.2. 3. Procedure for drawing blood

1. Assemble equipment.
2. Identify and prepare the patient.
3. Select the site.
4. Perform hand hygiene and put on gloves.
5. Disinfect the entry site.
6. Take blood.
7. Fill the laboratory sample tubes.
8. Draw samples in the correct order.

How should a needle be inserted for venipuncture?

The needle should form a 15 to 30 degree angle with the surface of the arm. Swiftly insert the needle through the skin and into the lumen of the vein. Avoid trauma and excessive probing. When the last tube to be drawn is filling, remove the tourniquet.

Why can’t doctors find my veins?

Veins can be difficult for a variety of reasons. Some people are genetically predisposed to having problematic veins, or their age causes the veins to be smaller or hidden. In most instances, however, it is a matter of the patient being dehydrated.

What is therapeutic phlebotomy and how does it work?

This increase in the blood cells, particularly the red blood cells, thickens the blood which slows blood flow. The removal of blood via therapeutic phlebotomy can improve symptoms and reduce the risk of developing clots.

How can I make drawing blood easier as a phlebotomist?

Try light exercise beforehand. Some jumping jacks or push-ups can make your veins pop out. As a phlebotomist, though, you can’t expect patients always to follow perfect procedures to make drawing blood easier, and you may even find that some patients are rude.

What should a phlebotomist do prior to entering the room?

Prior to entering the room all supplies should be gathered and organized. They should be clean and still in packaging if applicable. It is necessary for the patient to observe the phlebotomist removing the needles from fresh packaging to ensure they are clean. Bring the tools and supplies next to the patient.

Is it normal for a phlebotomist to be nervous?

Patients are usually nervous if they’ve never had it done before, or sometimes they have a phobia of needles or doctor’s offices. It is important for the phlebotomist to follow a step-by-step procedure to ensure consistency and to make the patient comfortable. Drawing blood, while routine, is a learned skill.