Phlebotomy
Phlebotomy
Phlebotomy (pronounced: /flɪˈbɒtəmi/) is a medical procedure that involves the drawing of blood for diagnostic purposes, medical treatments, or blood donations. The term is derived from the Greek words "phlebo-" meaning "vein" and "-tomy" meaning "cutting."
History
The practice of phlebotomy dates back to ancient times, with evidence of bloodletting procedures found in early civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks. The procedure was often performed by a barber surgeon, who would use a lancet to cut into a vein and draw blood.
Procedure
In modern times, phlebotomy is typically performed by a trained phlebotomist using a needle and syringe or a vacuum tube. The procedure usually involves the following steps:
- The patient's arm is cleaned with an antiseptic.
- A tourniquet is applied above the vein to increase blood flow.
- The needle is inserted into the vein and blood is drawn into the syringe or tube.
- The needle is removed and pressure is applied to the puncture site to stop bleeding.
- The blood sample is labeled and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Related Terms
- Venipuncture: The process of obtaining intravenous access for the purpose of intravenous therapy or for blood sampling of venous blood.
- Blood test: A laboratory analysis performed on a blood sample that is usually extracted from a vein in the arm using a hypodermic needle, or via fingerprick.
- Blood donation: Giving blood voluntarily for a specific purpose, such as a blood transfusion or research.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phlebotomy
- Wikipedia's article - Phlebotomy
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