What is Venipuncture?
Venipuncture is the procedure through which blood is collected from the veins usually done for laboratory testing or clinical purpose.
There are some risks associated with Venipuncture
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting
- Nerve damage
- Hematoma formation
- Infection
How this is performed?
Blood is usually collected from the vein located at the back of the hand or inside of the elbow.
- The site where blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with an antiseptic.
- A band is put around the area of upper arm and pressure is applied to make the vein swell.
- A needle is then inserted in the vein and blood is collected into an airtight tube attached to the needle.
- The band is removed and pressure is released.
- The needle is taken out and the area is covered with band-aid to prevent bleeding.