Blood test tips

[Chanel05]

I'm due to have a blood test tomorrow afternoon. I went on Wednesday afternoon but the test had to be abandoned because blood just wouldn't come out. This has happened numerous times during the last three years (since my first blood test) and it's frustrating to have to be jabbed at and then have to return or go somewhere else. I tend to feel quite nauseous/ feel faint during them too. I've been told on a few occasions that I have thin veins 🤷‍♀️.

I drink tons of water during the day, which I was once told would help things but I don't know what more I can do?! Any ideas welcome.

I have awful veins to get blood out of. It was horrible as during my pregnancy i needed lots of blood taken and i had to go multiple times for each test.

My issue is that apparently the veins in my arms move so i always explain when i first go in that there is an issue and please could they take from the back of the hand. Do you know if you have any veins that are better than others? If they try my hands and it doesnt work, i make a new appt as i know that trying the arms will just make me nauseous and faint. I drink litres of water beforehand and try to get to the blood taking place early so I can sit calmly and do a few deep breaths. Being hot and flustered always makes me more prone to fainting.

Its really horrible being poked multiple times so hope you have a better experience this time round

Warm your arms beforehand - much easier to find veins. Heated cushion, or hot water bottle, or hold them under warm running water beforehand.

But don't be afraid to ask for someone skilled. I have veins that are hard to find and in fact a good phlebotomist will find a way without it traumatising you.

Water and warmth are good tips; but also tell the nurse/ whomever that you have had issues in the past. I have had issues before after a lot of tests and the nurse concerned used a very fine butterfly type needle to pierce the vein and got a good sample that way. They have options and if they use those early you are more likely to have success

Either run or walk fast for about 10 minutes before your appointment. This is the only way I have discovered works for me - I live near the place where the appts are so I jog there - takes me 15 mins - and I time it so that I am due to go in as soon as I arrive! If you don't live near, you could get there a bit earlier and walk really fast outside to get your heart rate up.

Thank you for all the suggestions and I'll definitely go for the warmth.

I did mention on Wednesday that it might be a struggle to get blood from me but the phlebotomist just dismissed it until it happened 🤦‍♀️.

@AnotherNC22 we actually tried my arm that has most success first 😂.

Same issue for me, including feeling faint. Back of hand has normally worked better. Last time the nurse at my GP surgery gave up after several failed attempts and gave me a form for the hospital. Phlebotomist there was amazing; so quick and skilled. I didn't know about drinking water beforehand and so am grateful for that and the other tips.

They always struggle at the doctors with me. The blood donation people can find a vein quick enough though. I think sometimes they just don't get enough chance to practise as they have many different jobs to cover at the surgery.