venipuncture procedure

My question pertains to technique.  When performing a blood draw using a butterfly needle and vacutainer on the dorsal part of the hand, is it okay to withdraw the needle attached to a partially filled tube with vacuum?  Of course the torniquet has been removed and it is the end of the draw.  Wouldn't this method collapse the vein and be harmful potentially to the patient?

I always pull the tube out of the holder and withdraw the needle because of fear that I may damage some tissue,  etc of my patient.  However, I am informed that pulling the tube out is the last step with butterfly needle draws on the fragile veins of the hand.  First, pull the torniquet, then needle with vacutainer tube attached (sometimes with vacuum still in the tubes), then finally disengage the vacutainer tube.

Would appreciate a response.

[Philip D Parks, MD, MPH, MOccH, FACOEM]

Dr. Parks will reply to your message on 4/15 when he returns to the office.

[Philip D Parks, MD, MPH, MOccH, FACOEM]

My apologies for the delay in responding.

I would not recommend withdrawing a butterfly needle that is attached to a partially filled tube with a vacuum for the reason that you describe.

~•~ Dr. Parks

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.