Question

TazziRN, RN · Apr 17, 2007

Time and practice, my dear! Don't give up.

coadestone · Apr 17, 2007

Thanks TazziRN,

I keep telling myself my heart is in the right place. I really care about

the patients I see everyday; I also watch and try to learn from the

nurses I see and they all just seem so sure of themselves; They never

look nervous about anything and all i'm trying to do is draw some blood!

I only hope that someday I'll have the confidence that they do.

GingerSue · Apr 17, 2007

I have to agree with TazziRN, it'll just take time and practice

go with your motivation

allnurses Guide · Apr 18, 2007

Phlebotomy is a very small part of what an LPN might do... There are RNs in my hospital who routinely call the ER to come start IVs for them ,"she's a hard stick", when we get there they haven't even tried for Pete's sake. They just think they're no good so they don't try to get better.

You can master anything with practice and confidence. Don't give up on yourself! After 26 years as an RN I still miss sometimes, there really are hard sticks out there. :welcome:

RN BSN 2009 · Apr 18, 2007

welcome!

amy · Apr 18, 2007

I can understand your frustration re: your phlebotomy skills, but remember!!! you are still new at this... And I know of no nurse who would be practicing for one month and expect to know everything, and do it all correctly every time...

allantiques4me · Apr 18, 2007

Some nurses never do IV sticks.,or blood draws,Its not part of my job description. Youll be fine.Good luck.

HisHands, ASN, RN · Apr 18, 2007

Here's my suggestion:

Make sure that your technique is on (proper aseptic technique, etc) and practice practice practice. It took me months to get it (we don't have too many sticks where I work. Maybe 2-3/month if you're lucky enough to be working when they are needed). But, I knew I was doing all the technical things right... and eventually I got it... and then I got good because I kept working at it. As a phelbotomist I bet you'll have it under control in no time.

laughing weasel · Apr 18, 2007

There is a nurse who is a hero of mine who fainted her first stick. She yoda'd right up volunteered for day surgery and is much better at ivs than I am now. One of the many secrets to nursing is not to show your fear but not being stupid brave either. Do what you gotta but fake confidence so that your pt does not have to be more afraid than they already are. Confidence is one of those traits that if you fake it long enough you find one day that it is real. There are some pieces of human garbage masquerading as nurses out there if you sincerely want to help people then you will probably be a great nurse. You can learn a skill far easier than an attitude.

kittagirl · Apr 18, 2007

I had to smile when i read your post, I'm a clinical research nurse and a large part of my day is taking blood samples.

Today so far I've tried to get blood from 5 people and not one success...............................................................:angryfire :angryfire

So don't worry you're most likily better than you think you are and just focusing too much on it.

Calm and breath and I'll take my own advice too.

Any one feel sorry for my next patient........................

coadestone · Apr 18, 2007

"Confidence is one of those traits that if you fake it long enough you find one day that it is real."

Thank you Laughing Weasel - One of the best comments I've read. I'm

gonna remember this the next time I start to feel nervous. Thanks to

everyone for the tips and encouragement!