I). Preparation of vacuum blood collection devices

To Choose a suitable needle (normally there are 2 types of blood collection needles available, 21G and 22G, it is recommended to use 21G needle when the blood specimen collection is to exceed 10ml, since 21G has a comparatively wide point that less likely causes cruor and can speed up the blood intake. While 22G has a relatively sharp point which may cause less pain and easy to stanch the blood, suitable for blood specimen collection less that 10ml.), prepare tourniquets, use proper blood collection tube according to the purpose of blood test (it is vitally important that the phlebotomist correctly identifies the patient’s blood test items, check patient’s name, sex, age and case ID number) and disinfection solutions.

II). Patient Preparation

1. Explain the purpose, necessity, procedure and amount of blood will be collected to the patient.

2. The phlebotomist must confirm whether the patient has been on fast 12 hours before blood collecting.( fasting and exercise may affect the result of certain tests)

3. Be kind to the patient so as to abate his/her nervousness. In case the patient is overstressed, the blood circulation of the body may be ill affected and arouse some difficulties in blood collection.

III). Site collection

The arm has many veins from which to choose a venipuncture site. Use the large veins of the forearm which are the median cubital, cephalic or basilica veins for venipuncture. Additionally venipuncture site can be selected in scalp vein, the shallow vein on the dorsal side of the hand, and the shallow vein on the dorsal side of the foot. In general, the former three sites have a relatively quick blood flow.