9 Most Important Steps For Venipuncture

1. Test Report Form

• A properly filled test requisition form is the first important step of blood sample analysis. 
• It contains the patient identification and test detail information.  
• It acts as a link between the physician and the laboratory. 
• It significantly affects laboratory outcomes and ultimately patient safety. 
• Collecting a sample from an incorrectly identified patient can lead to serious consequences such as misdiagnosis.

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2. Patient Preparation

• The next important step is preparing the patient.  
• It also includes taking the patient’s consent before starting the venipuncture. 
• Putting the patient at ease helps in successful sample collection.

3. Patient Safety

• Make sure you are aware of the health status/condition of the patient.  
• It is also important for you to be aware of any known allergies or phobias of the patient.

4. Sanitation and Sterilization

• The next point of prime importance is to not let any infection spread during venipuncture.  
• All safety and sterilization protocols should be followed strictly.  
• Hand sanitization should be performed in view of the patient. 
• It is an important step in the venipuncture procedure.  
• The site of venipuncture once cleaned with antiseptic should not be touched by bare hands thereafter. 
• All equipment like collection tubes and needles should be checked before us

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5. Patient Positioning and Tourniquet Application

• Positioning the patient correctly and applying the tourniquet are the next important steps to be followed in venipuncture.  
• Most samples are drawn with the patient sitting up, while many patients prefer reclining chairs.  
• If a patient is known to have vasovagal (when a patient faints in a stressful situation), then the lying down position should be preferred for sample collection.  
• It is important to check that the hand is at a lower level than the arm during venipuncture.

6. Performing Venipuncture

• A flash of blood in the hub of the syringe indicates successful entry into the vein. 
• Blood is collected by slowly pulling the plunger.  
• At this point, the tied tourniquet should be released.

7. Hematoma Formation Prevention

• The needle should be retrieved smoothly and pressure should be applied at the site of collection only after the needle has been withdrawn.  
• This helps prevent hematoma formation.

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8. Careful Waste Disposal

• It is very important to ensure that all the sharps and other contaminated materials are properly discarded in specified containers or biohazard containers.  
• Hands and the procedure area should be sanitized after waste disposal.

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9. Care While Transportation

• Transport of specimens, if required, should be done timely and properly. 
• Samples should be transported in sealed leak-proof bags/containers.

All these kept in mind lay the foundation of an effective venipuncture procedure.