Phlebotomie

Phlebotomie (phlebotomy) is the medical procedure of drawing blood from a vein for laboratory testing, transfusion, or donation. It is usually performed by trained professionals such as phlebotomists, nurses, or medical assistants under supervision. The standard method is venipuncture, most commonly at the antecubital fossa, though arterial sampling may be used in specialized settings. Accurate patient identification and sample labeling are essential to ensure reliable results.

During the procedure, a sterile needle is inserted into a vein, and blood is collected into vacuum tubes or a syringe. A tourniquet helps locate a suitable vein, and the site is cleaned with an antiseptic. The tubes are filled in a defined order to prevent cross-contamination, then sealed, labeled, and transported to the laboratory under required conditions. After withdrawal, the needle is disposed of safely, and a bandage is applied.

Safety and quality measures include aseptic technique, use of personal protective equipment, hand hygiene, and careful specimen handling to minimize hemolysis and mislabeling. Common risks are minor and include pain, bruising, dizziness, or infection at the puncture site; serious complications are rare when performed by trained personnel.

Training and certification requirements vary by country, but typically involve formal phlebotomy programs and competency assessments. The scope of phlebotomy is limited to obtaining blood samples; arterial puncture, central venous access, and complex draws require additional training and credentialing. Ethical considerations include informed consent, patient privacy, and proper documentation and transport of specimens.