Obtaining Blood Specimen

Before obtaining biological specimen

1. Ask the name and date of birth of the patient
2. Compare them with the name and date of birth written on the patient’s hand marker
3. Ensure the patients privacy
4. Explain the patient the whole procedure
5. Assemble necessary equipment and check the date of expiration
6. Wash hands with soap
7. Wash hands with antiseptic
8. Wear non sterile gloves

Obtaining Blood Specimen STEP BY STEP

1. Tie the armband on the level of biceps
2. Observe for any well exposed vein by palpation with the indicator finger. If no vein is visible, tap gently the skin
3. Choose the vein
4. Take a swab and spray some antiseptic on it
5. Clean the area. One time is adequate
6. Take the appropriate syringe or vacuum syringe with one hand and with the other stretch the skin on the opposite direction than the needle injection
7. Inject the needle in a low angle and for few mm
8. The hand stretching the skin takes the syringe and the other withdraws blood or uses the vacuum tube
9. Before withdrawing the needle or the vacuum tube, untie the armband
10. Take a clean swab and apply on the site of injection with no pressure
11. Remove the needle gently and when is out we apply pressure with the swab