e. Vacutainer Procedure.
(1) Place the Vacutainer tube in the holder until the rubber stopper reaches
the guideline. The short needle should be embedded in the stopper, but the needle
must not break the vacuum (see figure 3-3).
Figure 3-3. Vacutainer system.
(2)
Follow steps 1-6 in paragraph 3-2d.
(3) Enter the vein with the needle parallel to and alongside the vein.
Probing or horizontal movement of the needle while under the skin must be avoided.
(4) After entry into the vein push the tube all the way into the holder;
vacuum is broken, and blood flows freely into the tube. Release the tourniquet at this
time by pulling the long, looped end of the tube.
(5) If the multiple needle is used or more than one tube is required, release
the tourniquet after the first tube is filled; remove the filled tube and insert the next one.
CAUTION:
Ensure the needle is not moved while tubes are being changed.
(6) Place a sterile gauze pad over the point where the needle enters the
skin and deftly withdraw the needle, placing pressure on the site.
(7) Have the patient extend the arm and maintain light pressure on the
gauze pad over the venipuncture site.
f. Discussion.
(1)
Cleanliness is essential when performing a venipuncture.
(2) It is most important that correct technique be practiced in order to avoid
unnecessary pain to the patient, prevent tissue damage, secure a good representative
blood specimen, and prevent contamination of the specimen or infection of the patient.
(3)
Syringes and needles must be thoroughly inspected for damage or
malfunction.
MD0853
3-8