1. Double-ended needle, Plastic holder

Vacuum tubes marked with a guideline (para 2-1a)

2. Expose area for venipuncture.

Select vein.

Position protective pad.

Prepare pledget (sponge) for use.

Apply constricting band.

Prepare the vein.

Palpate selected vein.

Cleanse the skin.

Prepare to puncture the vein.

Puncture vein.

Collect specimen.

Withdraw the needle.

Remove specimen tube from vacutainer.

Apply self-adhesive bandage.

Provide for patient's safety and comfort.

Dispose of and/or store equipment.

Perform patient care handwash. (para 2-3)

3. Position the needle parallel to and above the vein and grasp the patient's arm below the point of entry with the free hand.

Place the thumb approximately one inch below the expected point of entry and pull the skin taut and toward the hand.

Place the needle bevel up in line with the vein and pierce the skin at approximately a 15 to 45 degree angle.

Decrease the angle until almost parallel to the skin surface and direct it toward the vein.

Pierce the vein wall. (paras 2-3o, p)

4. The Laboratory Request form should contain the following:

Complete patient identification.

Requesting physician's signature.

Ward number, clinic, or dispensary designation.

Date and time of specimen collection.

Test(s) requested.

"URGENCY" box completed. (para 2-3x)

5. Syringe volume should not exceed 20 cc.

Place constricting band and penetrate vein as with Vacutainer.

Pull plunger back slowly.

Filled syringe may be removed from needle and a new one attached.

Insert the needle into the rubber stopper of the tube to transfer the specimen into the tube. (para 2-4a, b, c, d)