At Beauty Essence we offer a phlebotomy service. Many of our clients find it easier to come to us to have their private blood tests completed, so here's some information on how blood is taken.
Mary Gillmore, Salon Owner
Phlebotomy, the art of drawing blood, is a critical skill. It plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases, monitoring health conditions, and even saving lives through blood transfusions. Despite its importance, many people are unfamiliar with the process of phlebotomy. In this blog, we'll explore how phlebotomy is done, from preparation to post-procedure care.
Preparation:
Before performing a phlebotomy procedure, a phlebotomist must ensure they have all the necessary supplies. These typically include sterile gloves, alcohol swabs, tourniquets, needles, blood collection tubes, and adhesive bandages. Additionally, the phlebotomist needs to confirm the patient's identity and verify the physician's orders for the blood tests.
Patient Interaction:
Establishing trust and ensuring patient comfort are crucial aspects of phlebotomy. Phlebotomists often explain the procedure to the patient, addressing any concerns or questions they may have. They also assess the patient's veins to determine the best site for blood collection, considering factors such as vein size, visibility, and accessibility.
The Procedure:
Once the patient is ready, the phlebotomist begins by cleansing the puncture site with an alcohol swab to reduce the risk of infection. Next, they apply a tourniquet above the selected vein to make it easier to locate and access. Using a sterile needle attached to a blood collection tube, the phlebotomist carefully punctures the vein and allows blood to flow into the tube.
Depending on the tests ordered by the physician, multiple blood collection tubes may be required, each containing different additives to preserve the blood for specific analyses. After filling the necessary tubes, the phlebotomist removes the tourniquet and applies gentle pressure to the puncture site with gauze to stop any bleeding.
Post-Procedure Care:
After the blood collection is complete, the phlebotomist labels each tube with the patient's information and the type of test to be performed. Proper labeling is essential to ensure accurate and reliable test results. Once labeled, the blood samples are transported to the laboratory for analysis.
Meanwhile, the phlebotomist will apply a plaster to the puncture site and provides instructions for post-procedure care, such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity that could exacerbate bleeding or bruising. They also emphasize the importance of staying hydrated to replenish fluids lost during blood collection.
Phlebotomy is a skillful procedure that requires precision, empathy, and attention to detail. By following strict protocols and prioritizing patient safety and comfort, phlebotomists play a vital role in the healthcare system. Whether it's for routine blood tests, disease diagnosis, or therapeutic interventions, phlebotomy remains an indispensable aspect of modern medicine, contributing to better patient outcomes and improved quality of care.
Mary Gillmore, Owner
02072480127
7 Well Court, EC4M9DN
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