Page 8 - THE FIRST DAY OF PHLEBOTOMY FREE

Page 6 of 15

The gauge of the needle determines the width of the lumen, the lumen is the opening of the
needle. Also known as the bore.
The curve of the needle is called the bevel should, the bevel should always face upward.
The larger the number on the gauge, the smaller the lumen of the needle.

Using a needle that is too small will cause hemolysis (destruction of blood).

Do not draw blood without orders, always label the tube after you obtain the specimen.

A. The needle holder is also known as the HUB, the flange on the hub is important to use
during a phlebotomy procedure, it ensures control of the needle. Hubs may vary
depending on the facility.
B. Lab requisition slip, preprinted labels, fine-tooth marker to label tubes.

C. Antiseptic:
• Prepackaged 70% isopropyl alcohol pads are the most commonly used.
• Chlorhexidine gluconate (Chlora-Prep) used for blood cultures and arterial
punctures, and patients allergic povidone-iodine.
• Povidone-iodine solution is rarely used due to allergic reaction, but should
still with your supplies.
D. Winged infusion sets (Butterfly)
• Used for venipuncture on small veins such as those in the hand. They are also
used for venipuncture in the elderly and pediatric patients.
• Various gauge size

E. Sterile syringes and needles
10-20 ml syringe is used when veins are weak and may collapse. Transfer safety
devices are required when using the syringe method.
F. Tourniquets:
• 3” to 4” above the site of venipuncture
• Slows venous blood flow causing the veins to bulge thereby making it easier to
locate and palpate the veins.
• Blood pressure cuffs may also be used as a tourniquet, but is not common
• The tourniquet should not stay on longer than 1 minute. If the tourniquet is left
on longer than 2 minutes it causes hemoconcentration of the specimen.
• Petechiae are caused by the tourniquet being on to tight.

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