Phlebotomy Fundamentals

Study Notes

Definition and Purpose

Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood from a patient for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
The purpose of phlebotomy is to collect blood samples for laboratory testing, which helps in diagnosing and monitoring diseases.

Phlebotomy Procedure

The procedure involves selecting a suitable vein, typically in the antecubital fossa (bend of the elbow) or dorsal surface of the hand.
The phlebotomist cleans the skin with an antiseptic, ties a tourniquet above the chosen vein, and inserts a needle into the vein.
The blood is collected into a vacuum tube or syringe, and the tourniquet is removed.
The needle is withdrawn, and the puncture site is pressed with a gauze pad to stop bleeding.

Types of Phlebotomy

Venipuncture: The most common type, involving the collection of blood from a vein using a needle and syringe.
Capillary puncture: Involves collecting blood from a capillary, usually from the finger or heel of a newborn.
Arterial puncture: Rarely performed, involves collecting blood from an artery, usually for blood gas analysis.

Importance of Phlebotomy

Accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases rely on high-quality blood samples.
Phlebotomy plays a critical role in patient care, as it helps in monitoring disease progression and response to treatment.
Proper phlebotomy technique is essential to ensure patient safety and prevent complications.

Phlebotomy Equipment

Needles: Sterile, disposable needles are used to collect blood samples.
Syringes: Used to collect blood samples, available in various sizes.
Vacuum tubes: Pre-evacuated tubes containing anticoagulants or additives to preserve blood samples.
Tourniquet: Used to restrict blood flow and facilitate vein access.
Gauze pads: Used to apply pressure to the puncture site and stop bleeding.

Phlebotomy Safety Precautions

Universal precautions: Phlebotomists must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
Proper hand hygiene: Phlebotomists must wash their hands before and after the procedure.
Proper disposal of sharps: Needles and other sharps must be disposed of in designated containers to prevent accidental needlesticks.
Patient identification: Phlebotomists must verify patient identity to ensure accurate labeling of blood samples.

Description

Learn about the practice of phlebotomy, including its purpose, procedure, types, importance, equipment, and safety precautions. Understand the importance of phlebotomy in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and how it contributes to patient care.