Most of us who suffer from chronic illness are used to having blood tests on a fairly regular basis. For those of us who have veins that disappear as soon as a finger is placed on them, it can be a nightmare.
I have a few tips for when you have your next blood test.
Drink lots of water at least 2 hours before your appointment. Even with a fasting test, water won't mess with the results, and it hydrates the body, thus plumping up the veins.
Keep your arm warm as this also helps wimpy veins stand out. When my daughter was having daily chemo for leukaemia, they often put her arms in a basin of warm water to bring the veins to the surface. It worked.
Take note of which area is the most successful in previous attempts, and don't be afraid to let the phlebotomist know. He or she only gets three attempts to draw blood, so pain-wise and time-wise, being proactive in your blood test will ensure the greatest chance of success.
Also take note of what they actually use on you that has been OK in the past and if they used for example, the butterfly instead of vacutainer syringe, tell them.
After all, it's no fun being prodded and pricked, and anything we can do to assist the process is a good thing. Especially if you are like me and have wimpy veins.
© Glenys Robyn Hicks
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12
At our house because there have been a lot of blood draws, the rule is that doughnuts follow blood draws and shots. It really helps with the anxiety for my kids if they know that a doughnut is coming afterwards.
ReplyDeleteWhat a good idea! I am anxious enough as an adult to have a blood test; I remember well my fear as a child. Anything that lessens that anxiety is a good thing. Thanks for taking tea with me today. Blessings, Glenys
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