Having drawn blood from thousands of patients, I know the fear many have for needles, blood, and how the venipuncture process make you uncomfortable. The sad thing is, drawing blood to perform medical tests is not going away for the seeable future.
There are technologies that are being developed to make obtaining blood for medical tests easier, but for the time being those technologies are not the main way the job is done.
A needle still has to be used to draw the blood. However, as a patient, there are some things you can do that will reduce the pain or discomfort that may be experienced when doing a blood test. Here are 11 tips that you can practice to achieve less pain:
1. Stay Warm
Keeping your body warm before a blood draw can make your veins more visible and easier to access. Cold temperatures cause veins to constrict, making them harder to find. To avoid this, dress in warm clothing and, if needed, use hand warmers or run warm water over your hands and arms before your appointment.
For instance, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and gloves on a cold day can help maintain your body temperature and improve circulation. If the facility is chilly, don’t hesitate to ask for a blanket. A warm body encourages blood flow, making veins stand out and the entire process much easier for both you and the phlebotomist.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to prepare for a blood draw. Proper hydration plumps up your veins, making them more prominent and easier to locate.
Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day before your appointment, as well as at least an hour or two prior. Hydration doesn’t mean overloading on water right before the procedure; rather, maintain consistent fluid intake in the days leading up to your appointment.
Dehydration can cause veins to shrink, leading to a more challenging and potentially uncomfortable procedure. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before the blood draw, as they can have dehydrating effects.
3. Exercise for a Short Period
Engaging in light exercise before your appointment can increase blood flow and make your veins more accessible. Simple activities such as taking a brisk walk, doing a few jumping jacks, or squeezing a stress ball can help get your blood circulating.
This tip is especially helpful if you tend to have small or hard-to-locate veins. Exercise warms up your body and enhances circulation, which naturally brings veins closer to the surface.
However, it’s important not to overdo it—intense exercise could leave you fatigued or increase your heart rate unnecessarily, which might complicate the procedure.
4. Remember to Breathe
It’s natural to feel anxious about a blood draw, but holding your breath or tensing up can make the experience more uncomfortable. Practice deep breathing exercises to relax your body and mind. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold the breath for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Repeating this cycle several times can reduce your stress levels and make the procedure feel less daunting. Breathing techniques are particularly helpful if you’re prone to fainting or feeling lightheaded during medical procedures. Staying calm and controlling your breathing can make a noticeable difference in how you experience the draw.
5. Stay Calm and Be Still
Remaining as still as possible during the blood draw allows the phlebotomist to work efficiently and reduces the risk of discomfort. Fidgeting, moving your arm, or sudden jerks can make the process more difficult and potentially painful.
Relax your arm and hand, and trust the professional handling the procedure. If you feel nervous, try visualizing a calming scene, such as a beach or a quiet forest, to distract your mind. The calmer and steadier you are, the quicker and smoother the process will be.
6. Engage in Conversation
Distraction is a powerful tool to ease anxiety during a blood draw. Engaging in a conversation with the phlebotomist or a companion can help shift your focus away from the needle and the procedure. Many healthcare professionals are accustomed to chatting with patients to put them at ease.
You can talk about anything—your plans for the day, a favorite hobby, or even the weather. If you’re alone, consider bringing a podcast or music to listen to during the procedure. Keeping your mind occupied can make the experience feel quicker and less intimidating.
7. Suggest a Good Vein if You Have One
If you know you have a specific vein that works best for blood draws, let the phlebotomist know. Many people have a preferred vein that’s easier to access, often on the inner arm or near the elbow crease. Sharing this information can save time and minimize discomfort.
For example, if you’ve had successful draws from your left arm in the past, mention it to the technician. Your input can make the process smoother, as the phlebotomist won’t have to spend extra time searching for a suitable vein.
8. Let the Phlebotomist Know You Have Hard-to-Find Veins
If you’ve experienced difficulties with blood draws in the past due to hard-to-find veins, inform the phlebotomist before they begin. They may take extra precautions, use specialized equipment like a vein finder, or call in a more experienced colleague for assistance.
Being upfront about this issue helps set realistic expectations and allows the medical team to adjust their approach. Some facilities even offer butterfly needles, which are smaller and can be more comfortable for patients with difficult veins. Communication is key to ensuring the best possible experience.
9. Don’t Look at That Arm
If the sight of needles or blood makes you uneasy, avoid looking at your arm during the procedure. Avert your gaze or bring something to focus on, such as a book, your phone, or a stress ball. You can also close your eyes and visualize a calming scene to distract yourself.
Many patients find that not watching the process helps reduce anxiety and discomfort. If you’re particularly nervous, let the phlebotomist know so they can offer additional reassurance or distraction techniques.
10. Request an Experienced Phlebotomist
If you’re especially anxious about the procedure or have had negative experiences in the past, don’t hesitate to ask for an experienced phlebotomist. Skilled professionals often have refined techniques that make the process faster and less painful.
They’re also more adept at handling challenging situations, such as hard-to-find veins or nervous patients.
While every medical professional is trained to perform blood draws, experience can make a significant difference in patient comfort. Advocating for yourself in this way can help ensure a smoother experience.
11. Consider Asking for Numbing Cream
For those with extreme sensitivity or needle anxiety, numbing creams like lidocaine can be a helpful option. These topical anesthetics work by temporarily numbing the skin, significantly reducing the sensation of pain during the procedure.
Apply the cream to the puncture site about 30 minutes before your appointment for the best results. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on proper use.
While numbing cream may not be practical for all situations, it can be a game-changer for patients who dread blood draws. Consider this option if you’re particularly apprehensive or have a low pain threshold.
By following these tips, you can take an active role in making your blood draw a more comfortable experience. Remember, phlebotomists are there to help, and your input can make a big difference in how smoothly the procedure goes.