Last week, our community engaged in discussions ranging from practical tips to nuanced debates in phlebotomy practices. A significant topic was the effectiveness of pre-draw checklists, which sparked a conversation on reducing redraws. Members also shared insights on useful continuing education units (CEUs) and debated best practices for handling blue top tubes. Equipment reliability was another focus, particularly label printers and their performance in various conditions.
This Week’s Hot Topics
Pre-draw checklist that reduced redraws
A lively discussion emerged around a pre-draw checklist that some members found reduces redraws, enhancing both efficiency and patient satisfaction.
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CEUs that are actually useful
Members are exchanging tips on which CEUs provide the most practical learning, proving invaluable for both new and seasoned phlebotomists.
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Why we discard before the blue top
This topic revisits the reasoning behind discarding tubes before collecting a blue top, with experienced phlebotomists weighing in on its importance.
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Label printers that don’t smear
Finding reliable label printers is crucial. Members discuss their experiences with various models, focusing on those that perform well under different conditions.
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Discard tube with butterfly for coag
The community explores when and why to use a discard tube with butterfly needles for coagulation tests, addressing common confusions.
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Night shift huddle script + draw checks
An insightful exchange on effective night shift huddle scripts and draw checks, aiming to improve workflow and communication.
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The vein that clocks out early
A humorous yet practical thread about veins that are elusive, with tips on how to handle these tricky situations.
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Tamper seals that stick in the cold
Members share their experiences with tamper seals, especially those that perform well in cold environments, ensuring sample integrity.
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Switching to 23g vs 25g butterflies
A detailed conversation on the pros and cons of using 23g versus 25g butterfly needles, focusing on patient comfort and sample quality.
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More butterfly requests on nights
Night shift workers discuss the growing trend of increased butterfly needle requests, examining its causes and solutions.
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Thank you for staying engaged and sharing your experiences. Your contributions make a real difference in our field.