Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
Blood collection is a crucial medical procedure used for diagnostic, therapeutic, and monitoring purposes. The process involves several essential steps. First, healthcare professionals gather the necessary supplies, including sterile gloves, alcohol swabs, tourniquets, blood collection tubes, needles, and a sharps disposal container. They then prepare the patient, explaining the procedure and ensuring their comfort. The collector cleans their hands thoroughly with soap and water or hand sanitizer and identifies a suitable vein for blood collection, often in the inner elbow or back of the hand. A tourniquet is applied just above the chosen vein to make it more visible.
After disinfecting the skin with an alcohol swab, the healthcare provider inserts a needle into the vein. Blood may be collected using either a vacuum tube system or a syringe, depending on the procedure. The tourniquet is released to prevent excessive backflow, and the required amount of blood is collected, usually as indicated by volume markings on the collection tube or syringe. The needle is then carefully removed from the vein while maintaining pressure on the site with a sterile bandage or gauze pad to prevent bleeding. Sharps, including the used needle, are disposed of safely in designated containers.
Finally, the collected blood samples are labeled with the patient's information and the type of tests to be performed. They are then stored and transported to the laboratory following established protocols to ensure sample integrity and accurate test results. Strict adherence to aseptic techniques and proper training are essential to ensure patient safety throughout the blood collection process.