Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood samples by injecting a needle into a vein.


Patient Preparation

Patient is prepared according to test specific protocol. Good specimen quality ensures accurate results. Register tests as per the requisition slip. Seek clarification in doubt.


Fasting Requirements

A fasting morning specimen is preferred until specified otherwise. Results of tests whose sampling is done between 8.00 to 10.00 am are best interpreted with reference intervals.


Specimen Collection

Ensure patient's correct identity- Lab No., Name, Age, Sex, etc. Sampling done only after patient has rested for ten minutes. Refer to the Alphabetical List of Tests in Reference Guide for detailed instructions on specimen collection. Label & barcode the blood collection tubes prior to sampling. Select & prepare proper phlebotomy site. Puncture the vein when spirit has evaporated completely. Avoid sites of I/V infusion, hematoma, oedema & thrombosis. Do not apply tourniquet for more than one minute. Draw blood sample with minimum trauma using correct order of draw (Blood culture, SST/Red Top, Citrate, Heparin, EDTA, Flouride) and needle size (preferred 19-21G). Ensure correct volume draw for additive tubes. Mix the blood with the anticoagulant by gently inverting 8-10 times for additive tubes and 3-4 times for SST. Press the puncture site keeping the arm horizontal till blood stops flowing; apply Band - aid'.


Safety Precautions

Technicians/phlebotomists should wear gloves and apron for their safety. Destroy the needle in needle cutter after drawing blood. Discard sharps and other biological waste in proper bins containing disinfectant (1% sodium hypochlorite).