Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy, also known as venipuncture or blood draw, is the process of collecting blood from a vein, typically in the arm, for diagnostic testing or other medical purposes[1][4][7]. It is a critical skill performed by phlebotomists, nurses, medical lab scientists, and other healthcare workers[1][4].
Techniques
- Straight Needle Technique: The most common method for blood collection[1].
- Butterfly Needle Technique: Often used for smaller veins or with pediatric patients[1].
- Skin Puncture: Also known as capillary puncture, involves drawing blood from a finger or heel using a small needle or lancet, typically when only a small amount of blood is needed[2].
The Phlebotomy Procedure
- Patient Positioning: Ensure the patient is seated or lying down comfortably with their arm extended and supported to make the vein easily accessible and prevent fainting[4].
- Tourniquet Application: Place a tourniquet around the upper arm to slow blood flow, being careful not to keep it on for more than two minutes[4].
- Vein Selection and Preparation: Choose an appropriate vein and clean the site with a chlorhexidine swab, allowing it to dry[1][3].
- Needle Insertion: Hold the vein steady and insert the needle at a slight angle[4][6]. A 15 to 30-degree angle is generally recommended[3][6]. Observe for blood return[3].
- Blood Sample Collection: Collect the required blood samples[3]. If blood does not flow freely, slightly alter the angle of the needle[3].
- Needle Removal and Pressure Application: Remove the needle smoothly and apply pressure to the site with gauze until bleeding stops to prevent bruising[4].
- Safety Measures: Activate the sheath after the blood draw and dispose of it in the proper sharps container[3].
Contraindications
Phlebotomy should be avoided in areas with:
- Local skin infection, inflammation, trauma, or burns[7]
- Lymphedema or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the extremity[7]
- Intravenous (IV) infusion running in the same extremity[7]
- Arteriovenous (AV) graft or fistula in the same extremity[7]
DrStemCellsThailand‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand
While the search results do not directly discuss how DrStemCellsThailand‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand can assist phlebotomy patients, regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies may offer potential benefits in related areas, such as:
- Wound Healing: For patients who experience complications from venipuncture, such as hematoma or prolonged bleeding, Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell therapies could potentially promote tissue repair and accelerate healing.
- Vascular Conditions: For individuals with vascular conditions that make venipuncture difficult, regenerative medicine approaches might offer innovative solutions to improve vascular health.
- Overall Wellness: DrStemCellsThailand‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand services could help optimize overall patient health, potentially improving the body’s response to procedures like phlebotomy.
It is important to note that these are potential applications, and further Research and Clinical Trials is needed to determine the efficacy of regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies in these specific contexts.
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References:
- Best Practice and Procedures in Phlebotomy: A step-by-step guide covering planning, hygiene, patient interaction, and blood collection techniques: https://phlebotomycourse.uk/blog/procedures-in-phlebotomy/1
- Phlebotomy Procedure: Outlines patient preparation and winged collection methods, emphasizing proper labeling and hand hygiene: https://www.healthlabtesting.com/-/media/health-lab/pdfs/specimen-collection/healthlab_phlebotomy_procedure_12_13.pdf2
- A Step-By-Step Guide to Phlebotomy Procedure: Details patient positioning, tourniquet application, and the importance of accurate blood collection for reliable test results: https://www.phlebotomyusa.com/blog/phlebotomy/a-step-by-step-guide-to-phlebotomy-procedure/3