phlebotomy+directions

Phlebotomy Perfection This site is designed to assist the student in the proper technique of performing phlebotomy. The following information will assist the student by using step-by-step instructions to perform a successful venipuncture that is both safe for the patient and phlebotomist while following the guidelines set forth by OSHA.


 * 1) Wash hands and assemble equipment and supplies
 * 2) Check patient for correct identification
 * 3) Explain the procedure and the reason for obtaining blood sample
 * 4) Ask patient which arm they would prefer or which is their best arm to use
 * 5) Apply tourniquet and feel the arm for proper vein
 * 6) Clean the area with alcohol and allow to air dry
 * 7) Apply gloves
 * 8) Using your non-dominant thumb, apply mild pressure below the site to stabilize the vein
 * 9) Using you dominant hand, hold the vacutainer tube, hub, and needle
 * 10) With the bevel of the needle in the upright position, use a quick but controlled stick to enter the chosen vein
 * 11) Release your non-dominant hand and push the tube onto the needle, keeping the dominant hand pressed securely on the patient's arm
 * 12) Once there is a good return of blood in the tube, release the tourniquet
 * 13) Upon filling the tube completely, remove the tube from the needle and invert it several times slowly to mix blood with anticoagulant
 * 14) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">With a sterile gauze, cover the site of the puncture without applying pressure
 * 15) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">Remove the needle quickly using a swift motion at the same angle as inserted and dispose of if in a sharps container immediately
 * 16) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">Apply a pressure bandage to the patient's arm and instruct them to elevate the arm for several minutes
 * 17) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">Label tube with patient's name, date, time, and your initials
 * 18) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">Monitor patient at all times during procedure to insure they do not have any adverse reactions
 * 19) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">Instruct patient to remain in office for 15-20 minutes before leaving
 * 20) <span style="color: #7a00ff; display: block; font-family: 'comic sans ms',cursive; text-align: left;">Prepare order and specimen for laboratory

Students will chose either team 1, 2, or 3 under projects to join. Each student will then perform a venipuncture and discuss their experiences as well as the patients in the team area.