- Do NOT squeeze blood forcefully into the tubes. Allow blood to flow freely into each tubes.
- Do NOT scrape the collection device against the skin (may cause hemolysis/tissue contamination).
- Collection near intravenous (IV) infusion sites: Not recommended due to contamination risk. If unavoidable:
- Request the IV to be switched off for ≥ 2 mins before venipuncture.
- Apply tourniquet proximal to the VAD, but not too close.
- Perform venipuncture, then inform the caregiver to resume the infusion.
- Document collection site, IV fluid type, and that it was near active IV site.
- Avoid venous sampling from the following sites:
- An arm on the same side as an axillary lymph node dissection performed during mastectomy. Such procedures can lead to lymphatic stasis, which may alter blood composition, and there is an increased risk of inducing lymphedema.
- Areas with edema, inflammation, hematomas, injuries, or extensive scarring.
- An arm containing an AV fistula.
- Avoid muscle activity (e.g., making a fist or pumping the hand) during sampling, as it can affect many analyses.
- Avoid mechanically stimulating the vein/tapping the site before puncture.
