Describe what you would do if you have made one unsuccessful venipuncture attempt on a patient and the patient refuses to let you try again

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: It is understandable that some patients may not allow you to have another chance at their veins. This is particularly true for patients who are sensitive to pain or become faint during such procedures, since their level of anxiety is already higher. Individuals have a right to refuse, and most health care facilities have procedures for documenting a patient's refusal. However, a phlebotomist can politely, calmly, and professionally explain to the patient that the lab results are used to help the physician make an accurate diagnosis, establish proper treatment, or monitor the patient's health status, so his or her cooperation would be appreciated. If you honestly feel that you can get the specimen with another try, you might explain that if you don't get the blood specimen on the second try, you will not try again. On the other hand, if you do not feel confident, you should not attempt a second time; instead, you should tell the patient that you will seek out someone else who may be able to perform the puncture. If the patient continues to refuse, the phlebotomist must remain professional and acknowledge this refusal, documenting the situation. The physician should also be notified of the situation.
Keep in mind that in some facilities and depending on the tests ordered, you may be able to offer the patient a fingerstick in lieu of a venipuncture. However, it is important to follow your employer's procedures in these cases.