“Hello, I am _______. I am a trained, licensed phlebotomist and I will perform the draw. It is okay to be nervous. This will be a quick procedure and I will make sure to make it least uncomfortable.”
Introducing oneself and qualifications/ experience reassures the patient of a successful blood draw. Acknowledging the patient’s fear and respecting his thoughts and feelings are important in establishing rapport and encouraging cooperation in healthcare procedures.
(If the patient requests, the phlebotomist may ask an experienced/ preferred (by patient) colleague to perform the draw.)