Bruising Prevention and Healing After a Blood Draw

Bruising Prevention and Healing After a Blood Draw

bruising prevention

Bruises are a familiar and often unavoidable consequence of various activities, injuries, or medical procedures like blood draws. While they are commonly experienced, they can be painful and unsightly. As such, preventing them is always preferable. Both phlebotomists and patients play an essential role in preventing bruising. In this article, we’ll explore why bruising happens, how to heal it, and, most importantly, how to avoid it.

What Are Bruises

Bruises, also known as hematomas, result from bleeding under the skin. They occur when the small blood vessels, or capillaries, are damaged due to injury or strain. This damage leads to blood leaking into the surrounding tissues, which causes discoloration on the skin’s surface. The color and size of a bruise can vary greatly, depending on the extent of the damage and individual factors such as skin type and overall health.

Why Bruises Happen

The occurrence of bruises, especially after a blood draw, can be attributed to various factors. These include the physical impact of the needle entering the skin, the size of the needle, and the skill with which the procedure is performed. Additionally, post-procedure care and the individual’s physical condition play significant roles. For instance, applying insufficient pressure after a draw or engaging in activities that strain the affected area can exacerbate bruising. Understanding these factors is critical to minimizing the risk and severity of bruising.

How Phlebotomists Can Prevent Bruising

Phlebotomists are the frontline warriors in preventing bruises. Here are some strategies to use to avoid hematoma formation:

  1. Choose a Vein Carefully: Choose a prominent vein that is accessible and stable. This reduces the likelihood of vein collapse or arterial puncture, which can lead to hematomas.
  2. Use the Right Equipment: A needle that is too large can cause too much damage to the vein, and a needle that is too small might not be effective. Both can increase the risk of a hematoma.
  3. Ensure Proper Positioning: The needle should fully enter the top wall of the vein but not pass through it. Not going deep enough or too far can cause tissue bleeding.
  4. Hold the Needle Still: Keep the needle steady once it’s placed. Moving it can scratch the vein walls and cause internal bleeding or a hematoma, especially when changing tubes.
  5. Release the Tourniquet First: Releasing the tourniquet before removing the needle reduces vein pressure, helping prevent hematomas. It’s best to release it once the blood flows steadily.
    Preventing Hematomas Needle Position

How Patients Can Prevent Bruising

Though phlebotomists conduct the draw, there are many things a patient can do to prevent bruising. Here are some tips to try:

  1. Wear Loose Clothing: Ensure you wear loose-fitting sleeves to your appointment to prevent constriction, which can exacerbate bruising.
  2. Apply Firm Pressure: After the needle is withdrawn, apply firm pressure to the site to help the vein clot and close, which minimizes bleeding and reduces the risk of hematoma.
  3. Avoid Heavy Lifting: For several days post-draw, avoid engaging in heavy lifting or vigorous exercise that could strain the affected area and potentially cause or worsen a bruise.
  4. Choose Pain Relievers Wisely: If you require pain relief after the draw, opt for acetaminophen instead of aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can thin your blood and may increase bruising.

 

How To Heal a Bruise

Though we can do our best to prevent them, bruises occasionally happen. In those cases, we can do our best to heal them quickly. Bruises take a natural course as they spread and change color from a dark purplish hue to green and yellow before they resolve. This color transition reflects the body’s breaking down and reabsorbing the blood leaked into the tissue. To support this process, there are several measures one can take. Firstly, applying a cold pack shortly after the blood draw can reduce initial swelling and slow blood flow to the area. Switching to a warm compress as the bruise matures can promote blood flow and help clear away the blood more quickly. Additionally, keeping the affected area elevated can reduce blood flow to the bruise and speed up healing. Over-the-counter topical treatments containing arnica or vitamin K may also be beneficial in accelerating the healing process.

When to Seek Help

On rare occasions, a bruise can indicate more serious issues. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or unusual symptoms around the bruise, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

In Conclusion

This guide is not just about preventing bruises; it’s about ensuring a positive experience for both the patient and phlebotomist. By working together and following these tips and best practices, we can minimize discomfort and promote a safe and successful blood draw process. Here’s to a future where bruises are rare and comfort is common.