Phlebotomy Weekly Brief: June 17–23, 2025
This past week brought some significant developments for our phlebotomy and clinical lab community. We saw important policy discussions unfold, new medical technologies emerge, and exciting community initiatives taking place. It’s been a busy week, so let’s dive into what you might have missed.
This Week’s Key Phlebotomy & Lab News:
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Clinical Lab Advisory Committee Dissolved
The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Advisory Committee (CLIAC), a key body providing guidance on lab regulations since 1992, has officially been dissolved, effective March 31. This move by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is part of a broader program overhaul, and organizations like the College of American Pathologists (CAP) have expressed concerns about losing this forum for discussing critical issues in clinical laboratory testing. The absence of this dedicated advisory committee could lead to a less collaborative process for developing and updating future laboratory guidelines, potentially slowing the adaptation of regulations to new scientific advancements and practices.
Published: June 17, 2025
June 17, 2025 | College of American Pathologists -
American Red Cross Urges Type O Donors Ahead of Holiday
As the busy Fourth of July holiday week approaches, the American Red Cross is calling on donors, especially those with type O blood, to schedule blood or platelet donations. Maintaining a robust blood supply is crucial for all patients, including those in trauma situations requiring multiple transfusions. Type O negative blood is vital for emergencies when there’s no time for blood type matching, while Type O positive is the most common and always in demand for both chronic illnesses and sudden conditions. Donating now ensures availability for patients in the coming weeks.
Published: June 23, 2025
Blood Announcement: June 23 | News | American Red Cross -
Johnson & Johnson MedTech Launches New Plating Systems Johnson & Johnson MedTech has introduced new VOLT plating systems for radius (wrist) and proximal humerus (upper arm) fractures, addressing a significant need in orthopedic trauma care. Wrist fractures alone account for nearly 20% of all emergency department cases, highlighting the importance of these specialized solutions. Developed in collaboration with the Hand Expert Group within the AO Technical Commission, these systems aim to improve surgical outcomes and patient recovery for common bone injuries. This advancement underscores the continuous innovation in medical devices that support patient care across various healthcare settings.
Published: June 19, 2025
Johnson & Johnson MedTech launches new Volt plating systems
Tools & Tips
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BD PIVO™ Pro Needle-free Blood Collection Device
This innovative device is transforming blood collection by allowing needle-free draws, directly through peripheral IV catheters. It’s designed to improve patient comfort by reducing needle sticks and minimize pre-analytical errors by collecting high-quality samples. Studies show it can decrease pre-analytical errors by 56% and lower IV replacement rates by 19%, leading to significant cost savings and better patient experiences.
PIVO™ Pro Needle-Free Blood Draw Device -
AI & VR Shaping Phlebotomy Training and Practice
Technology is rapidly advancing how phlebotomists learn and work. Virtual Reality (VR) simulations are providing immersive, safe environments for trainees to practice venipuncture, boosting skills and confidence before interacting with real patients. Beyond training, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being integrated into devices for precise vein detection and even automated needle insertion, aiming to reduce variability in technique and improve overall efficiency in blood collection.
https://labdrawex.info/blog/embracing-technology-improving-phlebotomy-practices
Fun Fact
The Surprising History of Barbers and Bloodletting Did you know that in ancient and medieval times, barbers weren’t just cutting hair? They were also practicing phlebotomy, or “bloodletting,” often assisting monks in medical procedures. Patients could get a haircut and have blood drawn in the same visit! This historical connection is why the iconic barber’s pole is red, white, and blue: the pole represented the stick patients held to make their veins prominent, red symbolized blood, and white represented bandages.
8 Surprising Phlebotomy Facts - PhlebotomyU Phlebotomy Training
We’d love to hear from you! Have you participated in any Phlebotomy events or utilized new Phlebotomy tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.