Phlebotomy and Disposal of Needles

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Phlebotomy definition

phle·boto·my (fli)

noun

the act or practice of bloodletting as a therapeutic measure

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LABELING THE SAMPLE

Properly labelled sample is essential so that the results of the test match the patient. The key elements in labelling are:

• Patient's surname, first and middle.

• Patient's ID number.

• NOTE: Both of the above MUST match the same on the requisition form.

• Date, time and initials of the phlebotomist must be on the label of EACH tube.

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The requisitions form should be completely filled out, and the requisition must indicate the tests ordered

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Barrier protection for the phlebotomist consists of the latex

gloves.

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The tourniquet is applied and the phlebotomist

palpates for a suitable vein for drawing blood.

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The area of skin is cleaned with a disinfectant, or an alcohol swab.

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The vein is anchored and the needle is inserted.

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The vacutainer tube is depressed into the needle to begin drawing blood

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Additional vacutainer tubes can be utilized. Determine what tests are ordered and what tubes will be

necessary BEFORE you begin to draw blood, and determine the order of draw for the tubes. .

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When the final tube is being drawn, release the tourniquet. Then remove the tube, and remove the needle.

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After the needle is removed from the vein, apply firm pressure over

the site to achieve haemostasis.

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Apply a bandage to the area.

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Do not leave the needle to their fate discard scientifically

Virtually all needle stick injuries of domestic and portering staff are from needles that have either been lost in the workplace or thrown into regular garbage. Janitors and garbage handlers can also experience needle stick injuries or cuts from "sharps" when handling trash that contains needles or scalpels. Some attribute the problem to forgetfulness or lack of motivation or training on the part of people who work with and dispose of needles. Others feel that inconvenient disposal systems contribute to these incidents.

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Workers should place needles in wide-mouth, puncture-proof containers. Locate disposal containers specifically where needles are used to make safe disposal possible without recapping. Replace the containers before they are completely filled. Make sure they are sealed, collected, and disposed of in accordance with local regulations for biomedical waste.

How to dispose the needles

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Newer Devices for Safe Disposal of Used Needles

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Yellowone Needle Cap is a non-reusable sharps container for disposal of hypodermic needles. It is designed for syringes with luer-slip. The cap fits over 90 percent of all beverage cans in the world.

Yellowone Needle Cap

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Yellowone Needle Cap© functional

advantages Recycles soda cans, which are readily accessible, into safe and permanent needle disposal containers

• With just one click, the cap is permanently locked in place

• Is easy to use with luer-slip syringes needles

• Secures needles which may transfer infectious diseases

• Prevents accidental stick injuries during needle disposal

• Is ideal for emergency relief efforts, remote clinics and field situations

• Makes it safe to dispose of infectious disease waste by burying the securely locked can, or placing it in a waste disposal site • One can holds over 150 needles (small can of 330 ml) or 400 needles (larger can of 500 ml)

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Discard contaminated sharps immediately and without recapping in puncture- and liquid-proof containers that are closed, sealed and destroyed before completely full.

Safer ways to discard needles

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