- Venipuncture is the preferred method of blood sampling. If this method is not feasible following an individualized risk–benefit assessment, then a blood draw from a VAD may be considered.
- With any blood draw, health providers must adhere to a standardized blood sampling protocol or organizational policy.
- Decisions around blood draws require an individualized risk–benefit assessment, including factors such as the following:
- Person factors:
- age;
- health history;
- DiVA;
- pain and comfort;
- fear and anxiety, including needle phobia;
- bleeding disorders; and
- risk for infection (e.g., immunocompromised individuals).
- VAD factors:
- size and location;
- integrity of the site;
- condition of the VAD; and
- current infusion therapy (i.e., can it be safely stopped for blood sampling).
- Blood sampling factors:
- importance of highly accurate sampling; and
- frequency of blood draws.
- Person factors:
Clinical Management
Assessment and Device Selection for Vascular Access
Point of Care Resources