Introduction

• Wash Hands
• Hello, my name is Qasim - I am a 3rd year medical student and I have been asked to take some blood from you today as part of routine tests. Have you ever had this done before? This will involve me placing a needle into your arm, you'll feel a sharp scratch but otherwise there shouldn't be any pain. Would that be ok?
• Can I confirm your name & DOB? Can I just check your wristband?
• Any allergies? Are you allergic to latex?
• Are you on any blood thinning medications? (+ Any steroids/bruising?)
• How are you with needles?
  • ‘I completely understand, it’s a very common thing. Like I said it won’t be painful, maybe just a sharp scratch, and I’ll try my best to make it as quick and easy as possible for you. If you are too uncomfortable at any point we can stop.’
• Any preference for which arm I should use?
• Do you have any questions for me before we begin?

I’m just going to collect the equipment now, if you could just roll up your sleeve for me and I’ll be back in a second.

Procedure

• Clean tray + put apron on
  • Equipment
• BRING SHARPS BIN CLOSE TO YOU
• Check expiry date of equipment → ‘The equipment I’m using is all in date’
• INSPECT ARM (can ask abt bruising)
• ‘I’m going to wrap tourniquet around your arm, if it’s too tight at any point just let me know’
  • REMEMBER TO TAKE TOURNIQUET OFF
• (When opening packaging, keep stuff in packet, don’t open into tray → connect vacutainer straight to needle when opened)
• CLEAN SKIN (30s) → DRY (30s) + PUT ON GLOVES (HAND GEL AGAIN BEFORE PUTTING ON GLOVES)
• ‘You might want to look away now if it’s easier for you. Sharp Scatch.’