Phlebotomy Ps and Qs: Problems and Quandaries in Specimen Collection

Phlebotomists routinely encounter dangerous conditions, problem patients, and other issues during blood collection. This session will suggest techniques that can help you avoid or safely manage these difficulties. Areas to be discussed include:

  • risks associated with venous blood collection, such as improper vein selection and needlestick exposure
  • unusual patient situations that impact phlebotomy practice, including the cancer and bariatric patient
  • communication barriers and methods to improve patient interactions, like developing good listening skills and effective communication approaches with the elderly

Designed for phlebotomists and phlebotomy students who have comprehension of the basics of the venipuncture technique, this session will enhance your skills, build your knowledge base, and help you deliver the highest quality in patient care.

Originally published on May 6, 2014, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Lecture Presenter
Karen A. Brown, MS, MASCP, MLS(ASCP)CM
Karen A. Brown, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Program Director, Medical Laboratory Sciences, ARUP Laboratories and University of Utah Department of Pathology
Professor of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine

Ms. Brown has focused her efforts at the University of Utah and ARUP in the areas of education, administration, and service. In addition to teaching in the Medical Laboratory Science Program and serving as Program Director, she frequently presents local, regional, and national workshops in the areas of Hematology and Phlebotomy. She has also had the privilege of teaching Hematology and Phlebotomy to clinical laboratorians and other healthcare professionals in Africa and South America. Ms. Brown has extensive experience in leadership positions for professional organizations and continues to be actively engaged as a member of numerous boards and committees.

Objectives

After this presentation, participants will be able to:

Discuss advantages, disadvantages, and challenges associated with the collection of blood specimens from various anatomic sites and in special patient conditions.
Identify precautionary measures and actions that promote safe use of phlebotomy equipment.
List barriers to effectively communicating with patients.