Venipuncture sometimes causes fainting. A patient may also experience weakness, lightheadedness, or, in severe cases, loss of consciousness at any time during the procedure.
Before the procedure
If a patient is aware that they get light-headed or have fainted while having blood collected in the past, the patient may alert the phlebotomist. The phlebotomist must take appropriate measures to safeguard the patient during the procedure. For example, the phlebotomist may instruct the patient to lie down instead of sitting upright during the procedure. This practice may lessen the risk of patient fainting and eliminate the possibility of patient injury due to falling or sliding out of a draw chair.
During the procedure
If a patient faints during the venipuncture, immediately abort the procedure by gently removing the tourniquet and needle from the patient's arm, applying gauze and pressure to the skin puncture site, and calling for assistance. Place the patient's head between their knees if the patient is seated. A cold compress applied to the back of the neck may help to revive the patient more quickly. The use of an ammonia inhalant (smelling salts) to rouse the patient is considered an unsafe practice. The inhalant may cause irritation and/or anaphylactic shock in some patients. A typical fainting spell is self-limited; the patient usually comes around quickly. However, the phlebotomist should stay with the patient for at least 15–30 minutes to ensure the patient has fully recovered from the fainting episode.
After the procedure
If the patient states that they feel dizzy after the blood collection is completed, again, as noted above, place the patient's head between their knees and apply a cold compress to the back of the neck. The phlebotomist should never direct the patient to an alternate location while experiencing dizziness. There is an excellent likelihood that the patient will faint while walking and be injured. It is never advisable for the phlebotomist to allow the patient to leave after the procedure until they can safely do so. A patient who faints should not operate a vehicle for at least 30 minutes after regaining consciousness.
Reviewing your facility's specific procedures and knowing how to react appropriately if a patient experiences dizziness or faints during a blood collection is essential.
