Weird NSV - Blood Test

Oh wow!  That is really scary and must have been traumatic for you.

I had similar issues while pregnant (getting the IV in required an ICU nurse, and then they had to jab me 6-7 times to get the right spot for the spinal block).  Weight loss makes such a difference in so many areas of our lives!

This is a great NSV!

I just had my first blood samples taken after my NP appointment - 9 tubes argh! I had read the requisition and hoped I was wrong - nope - 9 of them. 

I have the same issue - I don't cry but I certainly get worked up. Luckily I had a very skill technician and didn't feel a thing.  She had all the tubes in her hand and one was headed for the floor - dread filled me but she was able to recover it before it went smashing down!

Looking forward to having more accessible veins!

Thanks!  Yes, there is definitely a lot of blood tests through this process!  I'm glad your test went smoothly (eek - 9 vials!).

Yeah!  So much nicer when they find the vein first try.

A couple tips that I tell my patients before they come in for blood work (yep.  I draw blood.  I am one of "them").  Drink tons of water the day before to ensure you are well hydrated.  The day of the lab work wear a heavy sweater etc including mitts so that you are to the point of sweaty.  It will make your veins pop out more.  Ask for a warm blanket to wrap around your arm and hand.

Thanks for the tips, Macro!  You must love people like me, LOL - I'm such a baby about it!  I've been following the water tip since someone told me that before, but the heavy clothing is another good tip!  I'm hoping that I'll be much more relaxed next time since it wasn't so bad today.  

Congratulations!  That's a great NSV!  And yes, that happened to me too for my bloodwork for my 3 month check up.  She found a vein no problem, whereas for the past year or two before surgery, it was getting harder and harder for them to find a vein.

Oh, and I'm wimpy too about it.

It is nice not to be poked multiple times, that's for sure!  I think I'll be much less anxious about it next time.

I'm right there with you Julia!!  I always say to the technician....PLZ don't make me cry   LOL

I did learn a little tip from one of them that makes it MUCH easier...for ME anyway....ask for the BUTTERFLY needle....they use it to draw blood from "babies" apparently.....not sure "why" it works better (maybe doesn't go SO deep ???)...I ask for it EVERY time  .

Verity

LOL, Verity!  I am glad that I'm not alone in my phobia.

They have tried the Butterfly needle in my hand before, but I never thought to ask for it in my arm.  Might give that a try next time!  Does it mean the needle has to stay in a lot longer to get the blood, though?

ANYTHING is worth a try, eh???  I've not noticed an increased time and there's usually no bruising mark.  I'm just glad I don't end up being a "cry baby"