Collecting with a person experiencing mentally ill health

Mental ill health is experienced by many people during their life with over two in five Australians aged 16-85 years having experienced a mental disorder at some point in their life (Australian Bureau of Statistics, abs.gov.au). We need to make sure we provide safe environments free of any stigma or judgements, where people feel welcome.

It is important to consider the safety of the patient, yourself and your colleagues, and others in the collections space.

As Michelle from Liverpool advises, “If possible, ask a nurse or carer, ‘Have they had blood collected before and how did they go with that?’”

Here are several things we must do:

• Offer choices that support the person to feel in control for example, whether they’d like to be in an open or closed room, sitting up or lying down • Pay special attention to seeking consent to do the collection, as well as getting consent again to continue after you have your equipment ready • Not ask the person about their trauma (outside of our scope of practice) • Have someone with you when we’re collecting from an acute facility.

What helps

Noticing where people might be unsettled and adjusting

your approach accordingly. As Jo from Wagga Wagga shares “if the person is sitting on the very edge of the chair, it’s a good indication they’re not comfortable.”

Being conscious of their initial response and openness

to conversing with you before continuing to chat with the patient. You may need to adapt your approach to meet their needs.

Being patient. Show understanding of everyone’s situation and take the time to support them through the collection if required, for example giving them choices.

Keeping calm, gentle, and respectful whilst being as brisk as possible to avoid keeping them waiting.

Listening to the patient. Listen to their concerns, fears and questions and be respectful in your approach and procedure.

Seek assistance where needed. You may need assistance to restrain the person but only under the guidance and assistance of a RN on the ward.

What hinders

Being judgemental. Every experience and situation is different, and as Jamie from Hunter explains “No two mental health issues are the same” so treat everyone with respect and understanding.

Minimising people’s fears. Acknowledge and be mindful of any fears or concerns people may have.

Not providing them with choices. Make sure the patient has choices to feel in control during the collection. As Lesia from Kempsey advises “Possibly place your collection chair with a view of the exit. When people are frightened, they want to flee so being able to see an exit route is calming”

“As someone with PTSD, it’s really scary to be in a small room with my back to a wall and to have someone put a needle in my arm without asking me.”

Young person