Global Library of Womens Medicine

Drawing Blood
Place a tourniquet, not too tightly, on the upper arm. Cleanse the skin with alcohol.

Feel for the distended veins. The antecubital fossa contains several branches of these large veins.

Swab the skin with antiseptic. Wipe clean with alcohol.

Insert the needle at a 15 degree angle. As the needle tip enters the vein, feel the slight "pop" or release of pressure.

Depressing the blood tube allows its' suction to draw blood from the vein. Additional tubes can be drawn.

Release the tourniquet. Withdraw the needle and apply direct pressure for a minute. Apply a bandage.

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