Venipuncture Procedure Steps

Step 1

Verify the requisition form for patient information and tests required.

Step 2

Properly identify the patient.

• Ask patient to state their full name and DOB

• Ask patient to spell first and last name

• Compare information to request form

• If patient is wearing a band, it must match

Step 3

Introduce yourself

Explain the procedure and secure patient consent

Step 4

Wash hands and put gloves on

Step 5

Do not label tubes before venipuncture

Step 6

Gather equipment

Step 7

• Assess the appropriate venipuncture site

• Apply tourniquet

Step 8

Palpate vein

Step 9

• Clean area with alcohol swab

• Allow disinfectant to AIR DRY

• Also clean gloved fingers with alcohol

Step 10

Assemble needle and tube holder then inspect needle for any damage

Step 11

Use thumb to anchor vein BELOW venipuncture site

Step 12

Make sure bevel is facing up and insert needle at 15-30 degree angle

Step 13

Once needle is in vein, push tube into holder

Step 14

Release tourniquet

Step 15

Fill needed tubes

Step 16

Hold gauze over puncture site and apply pressure immediately AFTER removing needle

Step 17

Activate needles safety and dispose into sharps container

Step 18

Label tubes

• Patients full name

• DOB

• Date and time of collection

• Tech’s initials

Step 19

Place tubes in transport bag

Step 20

Check puncture site to see if bleeding stopped

Step 21

Clean and dispose of everything properly

Step 22

Remove gloves one at a time turning them inside out

• say goodbye to patient and let them know a physician will deliver their results