Problems having blood drawn? It's NOT always the phlebotomist's fault.
1. If the nurse can't get it ask for a phlebotomist. Nurses have lots of responsibilities while blood is pretty much all we do & if we're not good we're unemployed.
2. DRINK WATER! DRINK WATER! DRINK WATER! When they tell you to fast that DOES NOT mean no water. Water has nothing in it that will affect bloodwork & the more fluids in your body the better. Start doubling up the day before & continue until after the blood is drawn.
3. Don't squeeze your hand when they stick the needle in. This goes against convention but I've been doing this for 20 years & have not had anyone squeeze for at least 15 years. Squeezing increases the chances of the muscle "rolling" over the muscle. It also can result in a high potassium level as that's natural chemical reaction in a muscle contraction.
There you have it! Unless it is an emergency (life threatening) situation these tips should help anyone have lab tests drawn easier. If I saw some1 trying to use glasses I'd get up & leave.
1. If the nurse can't get it ask for a phlebotomist. Nurses have lots of responsibilities while blood is pretty much all we do & if we're not good we're unemployed.
2. DRINK WATER! DRINK WATER! DRINK WATER! When they tell you to fast that DOES NOT mean no water. Water has nothing in it that will affect bloodwork & the more fluids in your body the better. Start doubling up the day before & continue until after the blood is drawn.
3. Don't squeeze your hand when they stick the needle in. This goes against convention but I've been doing this for 20 years & have not had anyone squeeze for at least 15 years. Squeezing increases the chances of the muscle "rolling" over the muscle. It also can result in a high potassium level as that's natural chemical reaction in a muscle contraction.
There you have it! Unless it is an emergency (life threatening) situation these tips should help anyone have lab tests drawn easier. If I saw some1 trying to use glasses I'd get up & leave.