Collecting with people who are chronically ill

Here are several things we must do:

• Respect peoples’ insights about their own bodies (e.g., which veins are best) as well as ensuring we’re checking the vein before using it • Respect people’s requests, such as use of a butterfly needle • Acknowledge carers or support persons that may be accompanying them, and include them if required.

As Jo from Wagga Wagga shares: “If someone asks to lay down, let them. If they ask for a butterfly, collect with it. Patients will come back for that service not someone telling them they know them better.”

What helps

Being aware of the patient’s physical state. You may need to modify the procedure to suit their condition. As Leisa from Kempsey explains “You can adjust the vacuum by after thorough assessment of the patient’s veins, choosing the correct fill tube for the vein of choice. For example, a 2ml tube will have lower vacuum pressure than a 5ml tube which helps to avoid collapse of the vein and therefore it is kinder on the veins, giving the same outcome as a butterfly needle”

Listening to their concerns and advice. Especially if they are having blood tests often, they probably know their own bodies well.

Being patient. Take the time to listen and understand their needs as they could be in pain or tired of repetitive blood collections and may not want to be in attendance.

Being very considered in conversation. Don’t say things like “don’t look so sad” or “it’ll be okay”.

Treating patients with care and empathy. Most patients are aware of how sick they are, treat them as you would others and with compassion.

What hinders

Rushing them. Be patient and take the time to support them if needed, for example, modifying the procedure and listening to them and their concerns.

Assuming they can move quickly, or they are going to be

responsive with questions. Look at using the arm band and not disturbing them if they are not able to respond to your questions.

Don’t be demanding of someone in that situation. They could be in pain or tired, be flexible in your approach.

What to avoid.

“I asked the phlebotomist if I could have the blood drawn from my left cubital fossa as I have a nerve in my right cubital fossa to which she replied, “yeah we all do.” When I attended the collection centre yesterday, I advised the phlebotomist that my venous access was poor due to hospitalisation and many blood tests and transfusions. I requested that the blood be drawn from the right cubital fossa but from low down in the vein and with a black needle. Her response to my request was “well would you like to do it yourself love?”

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