LisaintheLab

Just wanted to mention Order of Draw to ensure your patients are getting accurate results (otherwise what's the point of drawing). Phlebotomy.com has an excellent book for Nurses for anyone who could use a little help, also be sure to check with your Lab as to the correct order to draw (or fill for microtainer and syringe draws) as cross contamination can give erroneous results. As a Lab Assistant, not a Nurse (hope you don't mind me butting in on your page, but I was looking for info as my 75 year old Mother was just diagnosed with Diabetes in addition to her Alzheimer's) I recommend a 23 gauge butterfly and syringe for hand draws as a 25 can cause hemolysis. If using microtainers, remove the butterfly and insert blood directly into them, avoiding hemolysis again. Please don't use straight needles in hands as it causes a lot of trauma and puts you at a higher risk for needle stick injuries. Also always apply sufficient pressure after drawing to reduce bruising and save the vein for you to draw from later. Please don't use straight needles in hands as it causes a lot of trauma and puts you at a higher risk for needle stick injuries. Also always apply sufficient pressure after drawing to reduce bruising and save the vein for you to draw from later. P.S. gravity is great, be sure your syringe is lower than the inserted butterfly or you're working to hard. If all else fails, warm the hand with a wet washcloth for 2-3 minutes.