Collecting with people who use intravenous (IV) drugs

Collecting with people who use intravenous (IV) drugs

“The patient said that he likes coming to the collection room when I am here as I have never been judgemental about him or his choices”

Collection staff

People who use intravenous drugs often experience discrimination across public and private health and may be turned away from private pathology providers. People come to us for a compassionate and dignified public service. As Jo from Wagga Wagga describes: “I always ensure people are as comfortable as possible – that can mean getting them a drink or applying a heat pack. We want them to know we’re here for them, without judgement.”

Here are several things we must do:

• Treat the person with compassion, ensuring they’re as comfortable as possible • Don’t assume they have used IV drugs and don’t ask them about it • Listen to their advice as they know their body well

What helps

Applying a heat pack and ensuring the person is

comfortable to help with the collection.

Asking the patient if they have a preferred, or good,

vein. Make sure you still use your own observation and experience for the best collection, whilst acknowledging and listening to their advice.

Keeping calm, gentle and respectful. Remember they could be aggressive and anxious at times.

Be compassionate. As mentioned above, people come to NSWHP for a compassionate and dignified service.

What hinders

Being judgemental. Always be respectful of people and their choices.

Making assumptions. Don’t make assumptions about a person, their life or their experiences. Matthew from Lithgow also advises “don’t assume they have used IV drugs before”.

Do not allow them to collect from themselves. As Michelle from Liverpool advises, “If they are in your care, you are responsible for them. If they injure themselves in a self-collect process, you are also responsible for the outcome of the patient. You also do not want to give a patient a needle as this is not a safe practice”.

Something to remember.

“I think that IV drug use is like any illness. Respect is the best option for any collector and listening to the patient not having any preconceived ideas of ‘I do this for a job, so I know better’.”

Jo from Wagga Wagga

Part two:

when there are challenges, confusions and obstacles

In this section we explore what collectors can do and must consider ensuring consistent and quality experiences of collection services when things don’t go as planned. It is important to try and understand the situation from the consumer’s perspective and: • Ask you manager for advice and support • Know your safety procedures and how to get help if you need it quickly.