Blood draws! They are what nurses and phlebotomists are good at. However, drawing blood from a person can cause some pain or discomfort. The good news is, there are some things you can do that can minimize the pain or discomfort a person may feel or cause none for that matter.
No one likes the idea of needles going into their veins. Blood draws on a whole is not a pleasant experience. So, the more pain-free and more comfortable it can be, the better for everyone involved, especially for children and those afraid of needles or the procedure in general.
Here are some tips you can use when drawing blood from your next patient that will help reduce any pain or discomfort that may be felt when they are getting their blood drawn.
1. Put Tourniquet On Properly
Make sure that the tourniquet is put on properly so that it doesn’t cause unnecessary pain or discomfort. The tourniquet is a vital tool for locating veins during a blood draw, but improper application can lead to unnecessary discomfort or even pain.
When applying the tourniquet, ensure it is tight enough to restrict blood flow and make the veins more prominent, but avoid over-tightening, which can pinch the skin or cause bruising. Proper placement is also critical; position the tourniquet about 3-4 inches above the puncture site.
While applying the tourniquet, be attentive to the patient’s feedback. If they express discomfort, adjust the tension or position accordingly. A properly placed tourniquet not only aids in vein identification but also helps maintain patient confidence in your skills.
Additionally, ensure the tourniquet is not left on for more than one to two minutes, as prolonged use can cause veins to constrict, making the procedure more challenging.
2. Allow the Alcohol to Dry Before Inserting the Needle
The use of alcohol to clean the skin before a blood draw is a standard and necessary practice to prevent infection. However, inserting the needle before the alcohol has dried can cause a stinging sensation that may add to the patient’s discomfort.
To avoid this, take a moment to let the alcohol dry completely after swabbing the puncture site. This step only takes a few seconds but makes a significant difference in the patient’s experience.
Wet alcohol can also increase the likelihood of the needle slipping upon insertion, potentially leading to multiple attempts or improper placement. By allowing the alcohol to dry, you ensure a smoother and safer process.
For patients who are nervous, take this time to explain the purpose of the cleaning step and reassure them of your commitment to their safety and comfort.
3. Insert the Needle at the Proper Angle
One of the most critical aspects of a successful blood draw is inserting the needle at the correct angle. The recommended angle for venipuncture is between 15-30 degrees, depending on the depth and size of the vein.
Proper angling minimizes the risk of missing the vein or causing unnecessary pain. A steep angle can puncture through the vein or damage surrounding tissues, while a shallow angle might fail to access the vein properly.
To achieve this, take a moment to visually assess the vein’s position and adjust your approach accordingly. For deeper veins, a slightly steeper angle within the safe range may be necessary, while shallower veins require a gentler angle.
Mastering this technique requires practice and familiarity with different vein types and patient anatomies. Additionally, communicating with the patient about what to expect can help ease their nerves, as many patients find comfort in understanding the process.
4. Ensure the Bevel Is Facing Up
The orientation of the needle’s bevel is a small but crucial detail that can significantly impact the patient’s comfort during a blood draw. Always ensure the bevel is facing upward before insertion. This positioning allows the needle to glide smoothly into the vein with minimal resistance, reducing tissue trauma and discomfort.
If the bevel is facing downward, it can create unnecessary drag, making the procedure more painful and potentially causing damage to the vein. Before proceeding, double-check the bevel’s position and adjust if necessary. This simple adjustment can make the difference between a smooth, painless experience and an uncomfortable one for the patient.
5. Pull Down on the Skin to Make Sure It’s Stretched Out Nicely
Stretching the skin taut over the puncture site is an effective way to stabilize the vein and ensure a smoother needle insertion. Using your non-dominant hand, gently pull the skin downward to create tension. This technique not only makes the vein more accessible but also prevents it from rolling or moving during the procedure. For patients with smaller or harder-to-access veins, this step is particularly crucial.
Stabilizing the vein by stretching the skin also reduces the sensation of pain by minimizing the resistance the needle encounters as it penetrates the skin. This simple action ensures better control over the needle’s trajectory and helps prevent multiple insertion attempts. Take care to apply consistent, gentle pressure to avoid causing additional discomfort.
6. Use a Light Touch While Being Swift
When inserting the needle into the vein use a light touch while being swift. A confident yet gentle approach is key to reducing pain during needle insertion. Heavy-handedness or hesitation can make the experience more uncomfortable for the patient.
When inserting the needle, aim to be swift but controlled, using a light touch to guide the needle into the vein. Swift insertion reduces the amount of time the needle spends piercing the skin, which can help minimize discomfort.
However, it is equally important to maintain precision and control to avoid missing the vein or causing additional trauma. Confidence in your movements reassures the patient and helps create a more positive experience. If the patient seems particularly anxious, take a moment to reassure them and explain what you’re doing to help them feel at ease.
7. Use Your Wrist and Not Your Arm
When inserting the needle use your wrist and not your arm. The mechanics of needle insertion play a significant role in minimizing discomfort and ensuring precision. When performing a blood draw, focus on using your wrist rather than your entire arm to guide the needle. This method provides greater control and allows for more refined movements, reducing the risk of sudden jerks or overcorrection.
Using your wrist also ensures that the needle enters the vein smoothly and at the proper angle, which is crucial for patient comfort. Arm movements can be too broad and imprecise, leading to a less controlled insertion and potentially causing pain or vein damage. Practicing this technique will improve your skill and confidence over time, resulting in smoother procedures.
8. Use a Numbing Cream
For patients with extreme needle anxiety or heightened sensitivity, the application of a numbing cream can be a thoughtful and effective solution. Topical anesthetics such as lidocaine can be applied to the puncture site approximately 30 minutes before the procedure. This provides enough time for the cream to take effect, significantly reducing the sensation of pain during needle insertion.
While this option may not be feasible for walk-in appointments, it can be a valuable offering for scheduled blood draws, particularly for children or patients with a low pain threshold.
Minimizing pain or discomfort for the patient is the job of a nurse, doctor, or phlebotomist. By using these tips and techniques, you can reduce the pain and anxiety associated with blood draws. Not only will your patients appreciate the extra care, but you’ll also build a reputation as a skilled professional. Your patients will have more confidence in you the next time around.