Page 10 - PHLEBOTOMY STUDY GUIDE

Page 10 of 36

G. Chux (poly towel): An impermeable pad used to protect the patient’s clothing
and bedding.
H. Coban: self-adherent wrap, surgical tape, band-aides
I. Gloves: Must always be worn when collecting blood specimens.
J. Bio hazardous container: Puncture resistant

SELECTING A VEIN
You can obtain a venous blood sample from any vein in the body, however, there are
preferred sites for venipuncture to minimize the patient’s discomfort. The most
common area to access first is the antecubital space, also known as the antecubital
fossa, hence the abbreviation AC for AnteCubital.
The AC is located at the bend of the elbow and is easy to identify.
Have your patient to place their arm out with palms up and locate the bend of the
elbow, which is the area to palpate.
There are three major veins located in the antecubital space, and they are:

st
K. Median cubital vein: 1 vein of choice. Located diagonally in the middle of the
AC, this is the first choice because it’s large and does not tend to move when
the needle is inserted.
nd
L. Cephalic vein: 2 choice. It is usually more difficult to locate and has a
tendency to move, however, it is often the only vein that can be palpated in the
obese patient. The cephalic is a lateral vein located on the thumb side of the arm.
(palms up)
rd
M. Basilic vein: 3 choice. This vein tends to roll easily and sits between two
nerves. The brachial artery is very close. If the needle is inserted too deep, this
artery may be punctured. It’s located on the pinky side of the arm. (palms up)

If your patient is experiencing a sharp pain down the arm or tingling sensation
during the procedure, you may have hit a nerve. Immediately remove the needle and
apply pressure to prevent nerve damage.

This document is property of Career Employment Consultants, LLC. It cannot be reproduced, transmitted, or copied for any reason without the
written consent from Career Employment Consultants, LLC