Phlebotomy terminology
Common terms and abbreviations used in phlebotomy.
Procedure
Venepuncture: puncturing a vein, usually to take blood. Phlebotomy: the practice of taking blood samples. Tourniquet: a band that makes veins fill. Antecubital fossa: the hollow at the front of the elbow. Aseptic technique: practice that prevents contamination by microorganisms.
Samples
Anticoagulant: an additive that stops blood clotting, such as EDTA, citrate or heparin. Serum: the fluid left after blood clots and is spun. Plasma: the fluid from anticoagulated blood after spinning. Haemolysis: rupture of red blood cells. Aliquot: part of a sample moved to another container.
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FBC: full blood count. U&E: urea and electrolytes. LFT: liver function tests. TFT: thyroid function tests. CRP: C-reactive protein. ESR: erythrocyte sedimentation rate. HbA1c: glycated haemoglobin. INR: international normalised ratio.
Quality
Pre-analytical error: an error between collection and analysis. Chain of custody: a record of who handled a sample and when. Competency assessment: a formal check of a practitioner’s skill and knowledge.
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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CPD for phlebotomists
What continuing professional development means for phlebotomists in the UK, and how to keep a record of it.
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Paediatric phlebotomy
Taking blood from children: communication, positioning, equipment and working with parents.
Taking blood from older patients
Adapting technique for fragile veins, thin skin and patients taking anticoagulants.
Lola Dispatch is invitation-only
Lola Dispatch offers mobile blood draw jobs to approved phlebotomists. We add phlebotomists by invitation.
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