FAQ's
Phlebotomy is usually a very safe procedure, with very low chances of side effects or any risks. However, there have been rare incidents where the patients have incurred nerve damage, vasovagal reaction, and infections after the procedure.
Like all medical procedures and operations, phlebotomy services must be performed using proper procedures to maintain patient safety and preserve venous integrity to avoid accidents or injuries.
Quality assurance regarding the equipment and the medical professionals is key for the prevention of infections, mishaps, and patient safety. The main points for quality assurance during phlebotomy are education and training, maintenance of the standard operating procedures, and proper identification of the patient.
Once the blood draw site is determined, you'll want to gather the necessary supplies. Some healthcare facilities have pre-made kits, while others will require you to retrieve the kit yourself. Taking an extra set of supplies into the exam room is a good idea as you might need to perform more than one procedure.
The suitable sites for venipuncture are the veins in the antecubital fossa: the cephalic, basilic, and median cubital veins. An ideal vein will be 'bouncy' to the touch, have no pulse, and refill when depressed.
There are quite a few tests to be performed on each sample. While some are tests used for large-scale blood donation, other tests are used by doctors and physicians to determine which illness is plaguing their patients. The requisition form will state what lab work is to be performed.
Hematoma, allergy, hyperventilation, air embolism, anemia, and thrombosis are some of the most common complications occasionally caused by phlebotomy services or blood draws.