Blood Draw

Blood is usually drawn from the arm, opposite the elbow. Samples are sent immediately to our lab for processing and results.  Results are sent directly to your physician within approximately 5 to 7 days.

For most people, venipuncture is quick, easy, and relatively painless.  Some people, though, have veins that are quite small and difficult to access. Some veins are scarred from repeated punctures to the vein or occluded (blocked). People undergoing chemotherapy, for example, and those being monitored for side effects while taking coumadin may have more difficulty during a blood draw because their veins have been punctured so often. For these individuals, venipuncture can involve more than one needle stick.

Experienced patients are likely to take a more assertive role in the procedure, telling the technician the good spots to try or the needles, techniques, or instruments that work well. Women who have had a mastectomy, for example, are likely to tell the phlebotomist which arm to use to avoid the lymph nodes more prone to infection. Some people who know their blood is difficult to draw always request the technician with whom they have had the best results. If you are frustrated by a lack of quick success, try to stay open to the phlebotomist’s suggestions so together you can create a protocol that works well for you. Experienced patients are likely to take a more assertive role in the procedure, telling the technician the good spots to try or the needles, techniques, or instruments that work well. Women who have had a mastectomy, for example, are likely to tell the phlebotomist which arm to use to avoid the lymph nodes more prone to infection. Some people who know their blood is difficult to draw always request the technician with whom they have had the best results. If you are frustrated by a lack of quick success, try to stay open to the phlebotomist’s suggestions so together you can create a protocol that works well for you. 

Some people, though, have veins that are quite small and difficult to access. Some veins are scarred from repeated punctures to the vein or occluded (blocked). People undergoing chemotherapy, for example, and those being monitored for side effects while taking coumadin may have more difficulty during a blood draw because their veins have been punctured so often. For these individuals, venipuncture can involve more than one needle sThere are no specific fasting requirements for our tests.  We request two (2) tubes of blood to be drawn into our  tubes.