Perform Venipuncture Collect a Venous Blood Sample Using the Syringe Method

Summary

This video script offers a detailed walkthrough of the venipuncture procedure, emphasizing the importance of preparation, patient interaction, and accuracy. From verifying patient identity and explaining the process to selecting the puncture site and safely drawing blood, the script guides viewers through each step with care. It also covers post-procedure actions, including securing the sample, disposing of materials, and documenting the process, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of safe and effective blood collection.

Takeaways

• 📝 Verify the requisition form to understand the tests required and gather the necessary supplies, including a syringe, vacuum tubes, and safety equipment.
• 🔬 Use a 21 or 22 gauge safety needle for venipuncture to ensure patient safety and comfort.
• 🧑‍⚕️ Introduce yourself to the patient and confirm their identity using two identifiers to ensure the correct patient is being treated.
• 🙌 Explain the procedure to the patient, obtain their consent, and ensure they understand the purpose of the blood draw.
• 💉 Prepare the syringe and needle properly, ensuring the plunger is loosened and the needle is securely attached.
• 🩹 Apply the tourniquet correctly, avoiding restriction of arterial blood flow, and ask the patient to make a fist to help veins become more visible.
• 🔍 Select the appropriate venipuncture site by palpating the antecubital space and tracing the vein's path.
• 🧪 Clean the venipuncture site with an alcohol pad, working from the center outward, and allow the area to dry before proceeding.
• 💉 Insert the needle at a 15-degree angle, ensuring a flash of blood in the hub indicates successful entry into the vein.
• 🩸 After obtaining blood, release the tourniquet before withdrawing the needle and apply sterile gauze to the puncture site with firm pressure.
• 🌡️ Transfer the blood to the required tubes using a safety transfer device without pushing the syringe plunger to maintain sample quality.
• 🗑️ Dispose of the used syringe and contaminated items properly, and disinfect the work area to maintain hygiene.

Q & A

What is the first step in the venipuncture procedure as described in the script?

The first step is to check the requisition form to determine the tests ordered.

What are the essential supplies typically needed for venipuncture according to the script?

The essential supplies include a syringe with a 21 or 22 gauge safety needle, vacuum tubes, isopropyl alcohol pads, gauze pads, a tourniquet, a safety transfer device, hypoallergenic tape, a permanent marking pen or labels, a fluid impermeable lab coat, and disposable gloves.

How should the medical assistant introduce themselves to the patient?

The medical assistant should introduce themselves by name and their role, for example, 'My name is Claudia, I'm a medical assistant.'

What is the purpose of verifying the patient's identity using two identifiers?

Verifying the patient's identity using two identifiers ensures that the correct patient is being treated, reducing the risk of medical errors.

Why is it important to explain the procedure to the patient before starting venipuncture?

Explaining the procedure helps the patient understand what will happen, which can reduce anxiety and obtain their permission for the venipuncture.

What should the patient do when asked to make a fist during venipuncture?

The patient should make a fist to help the veins become more prominent and easier to locate for the needle insertion.

Why is it necessary to clean the venipuncture site with an alcohol pad?

Cleaning the venipuncture site with an alcohol pad is crucial for disinfection to prevent infection at the injection site.

What angle should be used when inserting the needle for venipuncture?

The needle should be inserted at a 15-degree angle to the skin.

Why is it important to release the tourniquet before withdrawing the needle?

Releasing the tourniquet before withdrawing the needle helps to prevent excessive blood flow once the needle is out and ensures the sample is not overly diluted.

What should be done with the blood sample after it is collected?

The blood sample should be immediately transferred to the required tubes using a safety transfer device, without pushing on the syringe plunger to avoid affecting sample quality.

How should the puncture site be managed after the needle is withdrawn?

Sterile gauze should be placed over the puncture site, and gentle firm pressure should be applied. The patient should also apply direct pressure with the sterile gauze, and the arm should be kept elevated but not bent.