If you experience a patient pumping their fists during a blood draw, what can you do?

When a patient pumps their fists during a blood draw, it can cause physiological changes that may affect the accuracy of the blood sample. Specifically, this pumping action could elevate ionized calcium and potassium levels in the blood. Educating the patient about why this behavior is problematic is important for ensuring proper specimen collection. Politely explaining the impact of their behavior allows the patient to understand the situation and encourages compliance.

In this context, requesting that they stop pumping their fists directly addresses the issue while also providing a learning opportunity for the patient about the blood draw process. This approach not only maintains the integrity of the sample but also promotes a cooperative environment, where the patient feels informed and involved in their own care.

While asking the patient to breathe deeply or suggesting they use a stress ball might help with their anxiety or distract them from the procedure, these options do not address the specific concern related to the blood sample quality as effectively as explaining the impacts of their actions. Ignoring the behavior would also lead to potential inaccuracies in testing results, which is not advisable in a clinical setting.