How Do You Perform Venipuncture?
Venipunture refers to the process of collecting blood from a vein for the purpose of laboratory testing. Blood is collected into a tube attached to a needle, usually by drawing from a vein in the arm just inside the elbow. Although defined as an invasive diagnostic procedure, venipuncture is considered to be relatively safe with risk of few complications. Phlebotomists and other health care professionals trained to perform blood draws are required to follow specific guidelines for collecting and processing blood specimens. Identify the patient. Check the wristband of an inpatient. Ask an outpatient for other identifying information such as date of birth to confirm identity. The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) sets phlebotomy standards for health care professionals who draw blood in the U.S. (see Reference 3) to ensure patient safety and standard of care. Check the requisition order for patient information, tests to be performed and other special instructions. Assembl
