Venepuncture

Introduction Venepuncture is the term used for the procedure of entering a vein with a needle.

Indications

1. Withdrawal of blood for investigations
2. As a route for venous access

Procedure

1. Confirm patient identity   
2. Communicate with the patient
• Explain the procedure to the patient and get his/her verbal consent
• Try to minimize the patient distress
• Ask if blood has been withdrawn previously
• Sometimes the patient is able to point out sites where blood can be withdrawn successfully.
• Answer any questions the patient has  
3. Gather the equipment needed
• Non sterile pair of gloves
• Kidney tray
• Tourniquet
• Sterile alcohol swabs
• Sterile needle and syringe of an appropriate size
• Plaster / hypoallergenic tape
• Blood collecting tubes or bottles
• Ensure there is adequate light