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In performing phlebotomy procedures, the convenience of the patient is to be highly considered. Venipuncture aims to minimize the pain and the damage that is caused by the puncturing of the skin. Such practice requires excellent preparation to avoid the occurrence of bruises that may cause deformation to the skin’s surface. The best way to prepare is to be extra careful and take time in the preparation of the equipment and implementing the procedures. This would also contribute to easing the patient’s fears and anxieties related to the pain that the procedure may cause.

A growing number of good phlebotomists always explain the process before the operation and this enables the patients to clear any doubts or queries that they might have. If is also necessary that the verbal consent of the patient is taken prior to the start of the venipuncture procedure.

The medical history of the patient is a very essential and useful piece of information. There are certain factors which could affect the entire procedure and these include previous blood extraction sites and in such cases you need to determine the best possible place where the process can be done. Other factors that need to be considered are the lighting of the operation area and the legal formalities that need to be completed.

Cleanliness is the topmost priority of performing a venipuncture. After washing the hands, the phlebotomist should apply the tourniquet to the upper arm. The prominence of the veins can be helped by asking the patient to repeatedly clench and release the fist. The right type of vein can be determined by palpating the area with the fingers. The most appropriate types of veins for the procedure are bouncy and firm.

The area should be cleaned using an alcohol swab. Wait until the area dries up and then apply manual traction a few centimetres from the needle insertion point. During the insertion process, the needle should be along the length of the vein and should form a 30 degree angle. The tip of the needle is to be inserted to both the skin and vein in a single movement. Once the needles are perfectly in place, attach the vacuum bottles that would hold the extracted blood.

Once the required amount of blood is extracted you can remove the bottles and release the tourniquet from the upper arm. You will need to place a cotton swab at the insertion point of the venipuncture procedure. You should have already removed the needle by now. To stop the bleeding you will need to apply pressure for two minutes. You can ask the patient to keep the arms straight so that further bleeding or bruising does not take place. You can apply the dressing once the bleeding stops completely.

Phlebotomy Training specialist Dr Shahbaz A. Cheema, Course Director, Maxis Healthcare UK Limited – Leaders of Phlebotomy & Venipuncture Training ( taking blood ) Courses in London. Whether you have Medical Experience or Not, You Can Gain A Certificate Of Competency In 5 Days Or Less – 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. 99.6% Course Pass Rate.