Phlebotomy Guide

Phlebotomy Do's

Remember that patients you are dealing with are ill and concerned for their health; you should be supportive and caring, without prying into their personal lives.
You should exhibit integrity towards and be supportive of the Trust at all times. Any problems with carrying out your duties are between you and your manager, NOT the patient!
Our aim is to ensure patients leave having had a pleasant and cared-for experience.
Record all incidents and problems in the log book as well as discussing with your manager
Make sure you are familiar with the "Universal Precautions" procedure in the Control of Infection Handbook
Wear gloves – this is mandatory – to protect yourself from contamination and to reduce the effects of needle stick injury contamination whenever possible. Change gloves after each patient
Wash hands – mandatory - between contact with every patient especially where there has been patient contact without gloves.
Use only Chloraprep to prepare the venepuncture site.
Use a fresh needle for each attempt. Remember, the larger the needle the better the sample quality (do not use "butterfly" sets unless absolutely necessary.
Use single use tourniquets, gloves and apron on patients in isolation.