Question

A patient complains of extreme pain when you insert the needle during a venipuncture attempt. The pain does not subside, but the patient does not feel any numbness or burning sensation. You know the needle is in the vein because the blood is flowing into the tube. You only have two tubes to fill, and the first one is almost full. What should you do?

Answer 1

In case of extreme pain during venipuncture with confirmed blood flow, quickly fill the second tube if possible, then assess and address the patient's discomfort, removing the needle if pain persists.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient complains of extreme pain during a venipuncture attempt but there is no numbness or burning sensation, and the needle is confirmed to be in the vein due to the presence of blood flow, it is critical to assess the situation quickly and take appropriate action. The phlebotomist must consider the potential for causing vein irritation or injury, and remember that patient comfort is paramount in a clinical setting. If only two tubes are being filled and the first is almost complete, it may be beneficial to quickly fill the second tube while monitoring the patient's reaction closely. If the pain persists without relief, the procedure should be stopped and the needle should be carefully removed to prevent further discomfort or injury to the patient. The venipuncture site should then be observed for any signs of complication such as hematoma or further pain, and the patient's wellbeing should be addressed immediately.