Phlebotomy complications
Recognising, preventing and managing the common complications of venepuncture.
Haematoma
Blood leaking into the tissue around the vein. Reduce it by releasing the tourniquet before removing the needle and applying firm pressure afterwards.
Fainting
Watch for pallor, sweating, nausea and light-headedness. Stop, remove the needle, lie the patient down or lower their head, and stay with them until they have recovered.
Nerve injury
Sharp, shooting or electric pain, numbness or tingling during the draw. Remove the needle at once, record it, report it and advise the patient to seek medical advice if symptoms persist. The median nerve and the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve lie close to the basilic vein.
Arterial puncture
Bright red blood that pulses into the tube. Remove the needle, apply firm pressure for longer than usual, check the site, and report it.
Other complications
Infection at the site, petechiae from a tourniquet left on too long, reactions to latex or adhesives, and haemolysed samples. Record and report complications under your organisation’s incident policy.
General information only. It is not accredited CPD and does not replace your training, your employer's procedures or the receiving laboratory's requirements.
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