BLOOD EXTRACTION INFORMATION SHEET

 

What is a blood draw and how is it performed?

A blood draw or test is a simple procedure that involves collecting a small amount of blood by puncture with a fine needle. This procedure is performed by specialized personnel (in this case in pediatric patients) and, once they have collected the blood, they send it to the laboratory to analyze it.

What is this type of test for?

The blood test is used to know the health status of the participant. There is information in the blood that can be used by the research team to assess the state of health and the immune system of the participant.

Is it a painful test?

Children may think that drawing blood is difficult and painful. But these days analytics cause little discomfort. At ISGlobal we want them to be able to prepare for this test, with the help of their parents, so that they do not come worried and scared about the puncture. See the following information.

What is the procedure to perform the test?

  1. An elastic band is placed on the arm, above the elbow. This tape tightens a little and serves to better notice the veins and be able to choose one.
  2. Once the vein has been chosen, the area is cleaned with cotton and alcohol. The boy or girl will notice freshness on their arm due to the effect of this prior cleaning.
  3. The vein is punctured and only the necessary amount of blood is removed. The child will notice it as a pinch or a mosquito bite. Sometimes more than one puncture must be performed, but if it is not possible to obtain blood, it doesn’t matter.
  4. The elastic band is removed from the arm and then the needle.
  5. The area where the puncture was made is covered with a band-aid or cotton. It will be necessary to press the area for a few minutes.
  6. The blood is put into a tube and taken to the laboratory for analysis.

How to prepare my son or daughter for extraction?

The imminence of the medical test can generate anxiety. When children get nervous, blood vessels constrict and it may be more difficult to remove blood. That is why it is important that they come as calm as possible. To prepare children from home, before arriving at the chosen extraction point, the following general considerations can be taken into account:

  • They need to know where they are going. It is advisable to tell the truth to children and explain to them that they are going to the hospital to undergo an analysis. If they show resistance, it is important to ask why and thus know if there is something that scares them.
  • What to explain to them? It is recommended that, in a clear and simple way, they should be informed about what a blood extraction consists of. This explanation must be adapted to the age, characteristics and need of each child to know the procedure. It must be taken into account that not all boys and girls find it reassuring to know in detail the test they will undergo, so if they do not want to know the details, it must be respected.
  • Parents may be with the child during the extraction. In fact, the collaboration of parents will be requested at the time of extraction. It is important to tell them that they can be accompanied.
  • It is recommended that you enter calmly. To help them arrive in a relaxed attitude, it is possible to distract them with whatever they want before taking the test.

What must be considered?

  • If it is the first time and they want to know the procedure, it must be explained to them in a simple, clear way and adapted to their age, characteristics and need to know. If it is not the first time, we listen to what they need and what could make the procedure easier.
  • It is possible to use analgesics, if necessary and on demand, to reduce anxiety and pain. You can discuss this with the project nurse on the day of the extraction.

What should be taken into account during the test?

  • It is important that children stay still during the test. It is helpful to know what things relax or distract the patient to make extraction easier.
  • Immobilization. It consists of keeping the minor restrained to avoid sudden movements during the test. Although it is not necessary to immobilize all patients, if it was necessary to do so, it is important to understand that it is a practice done in order to guarantee the success of the test and the safety of the minor.
  • Does it hurt? Boys and girls often ask this question. You have to be honest, tell them that they will feel the puncture but that the pain is not intense and lasts a few seconds.

 

It is important to recognize the bravery of children. If we do, this assessment by parents and professionals will be well received. For this reason, we will have certificates of bravery and drawings to paint. You can ask us if you think it’s a good idea.