- Generally, the collection site is located on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand.
- The process involves the following steps.
- At first, the healthcare practitioner disinfects the area where the needle will be inserted with an antiseptic solution.
- Then an elastic band is tied in the upper arm to make the veins swell with blood, thus making them more visible.
- A needle is inserted into the vein and the required volume of blood is drawn through it in an attached tube or vial.
- A stinging sensation is felt when the needle is being inserted.
- The band around the arm is loosened and the needle is then slowly withdrawn.
- Some pressure is applied on the site through a small bandage or a cotton piece to prevent any excessive bleeding.
- The spot is then covered with a sterile bandage and the sample is sent to the laboratory for testing.
- Since the size of the veins and arteries vary from one person to the other, the collection process may be difficult for some patients and multiple punctures may be needed.