Frequent blood draws
October 19, 2014 11:21 AM Subscribe
How to get through an extended period of frequent blood draws?
Over the next 20 weeks blood will be drawn twice a week and additionally on one occasion seven times in one day. Finger-stick tests and ports are not available. I'm not concerned with the blood loss, the overall amount will roughly match that of a regular donation. I'm worried about scar tissue on the veins from repeated punctures and healing. Getting blood drawn just creeps me out. How to get through this?
Over the next 20 weeks blood will be drawn twice a week and additionally on one occasion seven times in one day. Finger-stick tests and ports are not available. I'm not concerned with the blood loss, the overall amount will roughly match that of a regular donation. I'm worried about scar tissue on the veins from repeated punctures and healing. Getting blood drawn just creeps me out. How to get through this?
Best answer: butterfly needleMy mom had to have her blood drawn all the time in her advanced years. The butterfly needle made it much more comfortable for her. Butterfly needles apparently cost more, so you have to ask for one. I hope this is helpful.
posted by effluvia at 12:17 PM on October 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by effluvia at 12:17 PM on October 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
Best answer: Per @sockermom, yes, technically, blood can be drawn from the tops of the feet. I would not recommend that except as a last resort, however. I had an EMT in Hawaii try to start an IV in my foot and it remains a very painful memory.
Butterfly needles, techs that have experience drawing blood, and back of the hand all work for me -- but that is just the occasional draw.
Good luck to you!
posted by elmay at 1:01 PM on October 19, 2014
Butterfly needles, techs that have experience drawing blood, and back of the hand all work for me -- but that is just the occasional draw.
Good luck to you!
posted by elmay at 1:01 PM on October 19, 2014
Best answer: goo. i remember these days and i'm sorry this is the plan for you for the next several months. you will get through this with ease. you will.
sockermom is right - alternating arms is key. there's no reason to think they'll hit any spot enough to cause lasting damage (2nding that this will not impair your quality of life). and butteyfly needles are amazing; good call, effluvia.
i once had an NP recommend i use a stress ball daily to keep my veins from hardening - this is something easy you can do while you're watching tv or walking or waiting in line at the dmv. also, vitamin C and fiber are good supplements for vein/artery elasticitiy. stay hydrated - it's not necessary to over hydrate, just remember to drink water every day.
the seven times in one day sounds the least fun - you said a port wasn't an option, and i'm presuming that means a portocath, so is a heparin lock a possibility? the stress of this would be a far bigger factor in my day than the seven sticks.
i had a twenty-two month period where i had daily/odd-daily/weekly IV pushes/blood draws/what have you. it took that long for my veins to be impacted, and the damage wasn't caused by the draws/sticks, it was the toxin they were putting in my veins. the only way that this impacts my life now is that i share my history prior to any draws and point out where my veins are still strong.
posted by ovenmitt at 1:02 PM on October 19, 2014
sockermom is right - alternating arms is key. there's no reason to think they'll hit any spot enough to cause lasting damage (2nding that this will not impair your quality of life). and butteyfly needles are amazing; good call, effluvia.
i once had an NP recommend i use a stress ball daily to keep my veins from hardening - this is something easy you can do while you're watching tv or walking or waiting in line at the dmv. also, vitamin C and fiber are good supplements for vein/artery elasticitiy. stay hydrated - it's not necessary to over hydrate, just remember to drink water every day.
the seven times in one day sounds the least fun - you said a port wasn't an option, and i'm presuming that means a portocath, so is a heparin lock a possibility? the stress of this would be a far bigger factor in my day than the seven sticks.
i had a twenty-two month period where i had daily/odd-daily/weekly IV pushes/blood draws/what have you. it took that long for my veins to be impacted, and the damage wasn't caused by the draws/sticks, it was the toxin they were putting in my veins. the only way that this impacts my life now is that i share my history prior to any draws and point out where my veins are still strong.
posted by ovenmitt at 1:02 PM on October 19, 2014
Response by poster: Thanks everyone! So it sounds like scarring is not likely to occur if blood is taken from each arm once a weak. What a relief. I guess one week should be enough for each puncture wound to heal up completely. The seven draws are planned over a period of 12 hours and are done via seven individual needle sticks. Maybe a numbing cream would be a possibility for that day?
posted by travelwithcats at 1:25 PM on October 19, 2014
posted by travelwithcats at 1:25 PM on October 19, 2014
Best answer: I'm an RN and have drawn blood on the same patient every four hours throughout a 13 hour shift more than once in a specific scenario (and this protocol goes on for 24hrs). As long as you're well hydrated it makes it much, much easier.
As mentioned up thread, do insist on butterfly needles. If you're going to the same location for your blood work, they will know to alternate sites. Gauge sizes (the size of the actual needle) can also be varied depending on how small/large your veins are (there are butterflies small enough for pediatrics). Remind them, however, which vein was used the previous day when you go in to make it easier.
The first couple of times, if possible, try different techs. See which on is least painful and then see if you can stick with that person. Different techs or RNs have different styles and it makes a difference. Bottom line, is (as with anything) ask nicely and explain that you are freaked out by needles/draws.
If you take NSAIDs (Motrin, etc.) on a regular basis, try and maybe stop that during your testing, as it will make you bruise more easily and clot slower. Up your iron intake if you would like to promote red blood cell production (green leafies, red meat if you eat it).
I had very similar blood work done in the past and they were able to just use my antecubital veins (the crook of your elbow) without a problem and I had no scarring. (In fact, by the time they were done with all the testing, I got pretty good at telling them exactly where to aim - and this was long before I was an RN.)
Good luck and remember, hydrate!
One other thing, you might want to ask that they use paper tape or Coban (self-stick stretchy tape) instead of bandaids if you are sensitive to the adhesive.
On preview: The numbing cream you mention takes about 20 minutes to work. The needle pinch really is only a second. Maybe you're thinking about an IV insertion? They're much more painful than blood draws.
posted by dancinglamb at 1:35 PM on October 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
As mentioned up thread, do insist on butterfly needles. If you're going to the same location for your blood work, they will know to alternate sites. Gauge sizes (the size of the actual needle) can also be varied depending on how small/large your veins are (there are butterflies small enough for pediatrics). Remind them, however, which vein was used the previous day when you go in to make it easier.
The first couple of times, if possible, try different techs. See which on is least painful and then see if you can stick with that person. Different techs or RNs have different styles and it makes a difference. Bottom line, is (as with anything) ask nicely and explain that you are freaked out by needles/draws.
If you take NSAIDs (Motrin, etc.) on a regular basis, try and maybe stop that during your testing, as it will make you bruise more easily and clot slower. Up your iron intake if you would like to promote red blood cell production (green leafies, red meat if you eat it).
I had very similar blood work done in the past and they were able to just use my antecubital veins (the crook of your elbow) without a problem and I had no scarring. (In fact, by the time they were done with all the testing, I got pretty good at telling them exactly where to aim - and this was long before I was an RN.)
Good luck and remember, hydrate!
One other thing, you might want to ask that they use paper tape or Coban (self-stick stretchy tape) instead of bandaids if you are sensitive to the adhesive.
On preview: The numbing cream you mention takes about 20 minutes to work. The needle pinch really is only a second. Maybe you're thinking about an IV insertion? They're much more painful than blood draws.
posted by dancinglamb at 1:35 PM on October 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: "The numbing cream you mention takes about 20 minutes to work. The needle pinch really is only a second. Maybe you're thinking about an IV insertion? They're much more painful than blood draws."
No IV, seven individual blood draws on the same day (spaced out over 12 hours). I just wondered if it would help to use numbing cream since they'll have to draw blood several times per arm and the area might become more sensitive. Thank you for the other info, good to know it takes 20 minutes to work.
Ugh, I wish they could use this new method where one drop is enough for dozens of tests.
posted by travelwithcats at 1:53 PM on October 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
No IV, seven individual blood draws on the same day (spaced out over 12 hours). I just wondered if it would help to use numbing cream since they'll have to draw blood several times per arm and the area might become more sensitive. Thank you for the other info, good to know it takes 20 minutes to work.
Ugh, I wish they could use this new method where one drop is enough for dozens of tests.
posted by travelwithcats at 1:53 PM on October 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
Yes, I've read Wired article. Unfortunately it looks like it's really quite limited right now, and almost only in a small area of Arizona. It's shocking to see just how *cheap* the tests are (knowing they sure as hell aren't in a hospital setting), especially when I've had to check off sometimes multiple tests on lab order sheets to send with samples. Theranos can potentially revolutionize the face of consumer/patient knowledge and it will be fascinating to watch and see if hopefully catches on. God knows, the potential is there.
posted by dancinglamb at 3:00 PM on October 19, 2014
posted by dancinglamb at 3:00 PM on October 19, 2014
Best answer: I had a period of time where I had to drop by a lab to get a blood drawn twice a week - so I feel you. Nobody *likes* to go to the hospital and nobody likes to go to the lab especially, but here's what helped me:
- I got an immediate treat afterwards - yes, bribery really made it worthwhile and kept me from internally grumbling too much. I either got something from McDonalds (value menu!) or a latte from a cafe - you can select a treat that is especially tasty / enjoyable for you.
- It was cold one morning during winter (I liked to show up right when the lab opened at 6:30 AM) and the nurse told me that the two things that make drawing blood difficult are when you're not hydrated, and when you're cold. So she said basically drink lots of water prior to getting your blood drawn, and try to stay warm. (One time they had to give me a little self-heating bar that I held in my hand.)
- Twice they had to draw blood via my HAND. This grossed me out until I discovered 1) it's not bad at all, 2) it's a nice break from them using your arms. So - do not panic if they go for your hand!
- You will inevitably become de-sensitized to the process. De-sensitization is a wonderful process and your friend.
- Tell them if you're feeling woozy or think you're going to faint. Always go for good communication with the person who is drawing your blood. If you receive an intern and don't wish for an intern - say so!
- If you're worried about scar tissue - TELL THEM. They have dealt with all sorts of concerns from patients and can help you if you voice your concerns.
- Distract yourself as much as possible - distraction is your friend. I was never, ever helped by thinking about it prior to The Event happening.
- One other thing: I was most anxious during my first few visits. I would look around and observe the other patients: they were calm and acted like this was the most mundane thing in the world. No one was freaking out. So this helped me in two ways: 1) if THEY could do it, I could do it!, and 2) it enforced a kind of script of conformity for me so that I acted like I was just visiting the library or something - just another errand to take care of.
You can do this.
posted by joseph conrad is fully awesome at 4:54 PM on October 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
- I got an immediate treat afterwards - yes, bribery really made it worthwhile and kept me from internally grumbling too much. I either got something from McDonalds (value menu!) or a latte from a cafe - you can select a treat that is especially tasty / enjoyable for you.
- It was cold one morning during winter (I liked to show up right when the lab opened at 6:30 AM) and the nurse told me that the two things that make drawing blood difficult are when you're not hydrated, and when you're cold. So she said basically drink lots of water prior to getting your blood drawn, and try to stay warm. (One time they had to give me a little self-heating bar that I held in my hand.)
- Twice they had to draw blood via my HAND. This grossed me out until I discovered 1) it's not bad at all, 2) it's a nice break from them using your arms. So - do not panic if they go for your hand!
- You will inevitably become de-sensitized to the process. De-sensitization is a wonderful process and your friend.
- Tell them if you're feeling woozy or think you're going to faint. Always go for good communication with the person who is drawing your blood. If you receive an intern and don't wish for an intern - say so!
- If you're worried about scar tissue - TELL THEM. They have dealt with all sorts of concerns from patients and can help you if you voice your concerns.
- Distract yourself as much as possible - distraction is your friend. I was never, ever helped by thinking about it prior to The Event happening.
- One other thing: I was most anxious during my first few visits. I would look around and observe the other patients: they were calm and acted like this was the most mundane thing in the world. No one was freaking out. So this helped me in two ways: 1) if THEY could do it, I could do it!, and 2) it enforced a kind of script of conformity for me so that I acted like I was just visiting the library or something - just another errand to take care of.
You can do this.
posted by joseph conrad is fully awesome at 4:54 PM on October 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
Best answer: I've had so many blood draws done, it's astounding.
Butterfly needles help.
You know what helps the most? When the alcohol that gets put on to kill whatever lives on your skin gets wiped away with a sterile pad. Otherwise, the needle (and it doesn't matter what size) will carry alcohol into your body and that's what hurts the most.
No tape! Be Edna Mode saying that. Tape, when it comes up, tears your skin and makes the next draw worse.
posted by plinth at 5:22 PM on October 19, 2014
Butterfly needles help.
You know what helps the most? When the alcohol that gets put on to kill whatever lives on your skin gets wiped away with a sterile pad. Otherwise, the needle (and it doesn't matter what size) will carry alcohol into your body and that's what hurts the most.
No tape! Be Edna Mode saying that. Tape, when it comes up, tears your skin and makes the next draw worse.
posted by plinth at 5:22 PM on October 19, 2014
Best answer: As a poor desperate college student I used to sell plasma for a year or so and that was two fairly large gauge needles twice weekly and besides tiny nearly invisible marks there's not much evidence of it. (Though I am very pale and that tends to reduce scarring so YMMV)
Seconding what many people said, if you can find a tech who is good at their job STICK WITH THEM. There's nothing worse than getting someone rooting around your arm trying to find a vein and bruising the hell out of you. I've had people who literally spent 5 minutes trying to hit a vein and it's miserable. If that happens don't be afraid to ask for someone else.
I'd avoid caffeine and alcohol the nights/day before since they dehydrate and make your veins less turgid. Drink lots of water the day of for the same reason.
It helps to have something to take your mind off the needle the first couple times you get stuck. Browse a phone with your other hand, perform mental math or whatever you need to do to keep your mind off the stick. After a few times you'll be used to it won't be bad at all at that point. I think the worst is really the body horror aspect of "oh god there's something going inside my flesh this should not be" the actual pain isn't much worse than being pinched kind of hard.
posted by Ferreous at 6:32 PM on October 19, 2014
Seconding what many people said, if you can find a tech who is good at their job STICK WITH THEM. There's nothing worse than getting someone rooting around your arm trying to find a vein and bruising the hell out of you. I've had people who literally spent 5 minutes trying to hit a vein and it's miserable. If that happens don't be afraid to ask for someone else.
I'd avoid caffeine and alcohol the nights/day before since they dehydrate and make your veins less turgid. Drink lots of water the day of for the same reason.
It helps to have something to take your mind off the needle the first couple times you get stuck. Browse a phone with your other hand, perform mental math or whatever you need to do to keep your mind off the stick. After a few times you'll be used to it won't be bad at all at that point. I think the worst is really the body horror aspect of "oh god there's something going inside my flesh this should not be" the actual pain isn't much worse than being pinched kind of hard.
posted by Ferreous at 6:32 PM on October 19, 2014
Best answer: (I only made it through the first comment before I had to stop, so sorry if a lot of this is duplicate.)
My mom recently had draws twice a day for a week... She said that actually the regular techs were so good at it, it wasn't as big of a deal as she thought it would be. That said, try to alternate, there are so many different spots they can use.
Also, hydrate like crazy. Being able to see the vein makes a huge difference in how clean they can be. I am the amazing vein-less girl and the one time I had visible veins I was drinking about 2 liters of water every day. Don't chug or anything, but carry water with you for a day or two before and every single time that you think about it, stop and take two sips of water.
posted by anaelith at 5:47 AM on October 20, 2014
My mom recently had draws twice a day for a week... She said that actually the regular techs were so good at it, it wasn't as big of a deal as she thought it would be. That said, try to alternate, there are so many different spots they can use.
Also, hydrate like crazy. Being able to see the vein makes a huge difference in how clean they can be. I am the amazing vein-less girl and the one time I had visible veins I was drinking about 2 liters of water every day. Don't chug or anything, but carry water with you for a day or two before and every single time that you think about it, stop and take two sips of water.
posted by anaelith at 5:47 AM on October 20, 2014
This thread is closed to new comments.
First, you'll want to alternate arms. They can also alternate sites if you'd like - there are lots of places they can stick, including the back of the hand, side of the arm, and even the tops of the feet. That probably won't be necessary though, given that you're going to be getting it drawn twice a week, not twice a day.
I have scar tissue in my left arm from repeated draws. It took years of blood draws on a very routine basis to form. It doesn't actually impede them from drawing blood from me using other sites, including just a bit higher than the scar tissue is in my vein. Developing scar tissue from blood draws won't really impact your quality of life.
You will get used to it and it won't be as discomforting or squicky after the first couple of weeks.
Also, try to go to the same place at the same time and get the same tech every time. If you develop a relationship with a tech that you like you can ask when they're in and coordinate around that. I have had techs that were just amazing that I befriended and I ask for them when I check in. Finding someone who knows and understands your veins might take a bit of trial and error but it will help.
Finally, pay attention to where they stick and what works and what doesn't. This is good if you end up with a different or new tech. Be super nice when you tell them "It usually works best to stick just above the crook of my elbow, even though the bottom of the vein looks juicier it rolls a lot." Remember your tech's name and use it during your interactions. Being extra nice definitely gets me better care.
Oh and double finally - don't let any new techs or techs undergoing training to stick you. You don't need a fisher. Just be really nice when you explain that you're getting stuck a lot and you'd prefer not to have someone training stick you right now. This may only pertain if you're at a teaching hospital.
Good luck and take care.
posted by sockermom at 11:47 AM on October 19, 2014 [4 favorites]