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phlebotomy-special

Geriatric Venipuncture

Always tested on the Phlebotomy

Geriatric draws with fragile-vein technique.

About this skill

Geriatric venipuncture with butterfly needles, small-gauge needles, loose tourniquets, and longer pressure for anticoagulated patients.

15 total steps
6 critical steps
Time limit: 8 min

What graders are watching for

  • 1
    Butterfly with 22-23 gauge
  • 2
    Loose tourniquet (or skip)
  • 3
    Longer pressure for anticoagulated patients

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

  • !
    Tight tourniquet on fragile veins
  • !
    Straight needle on fragile veins
  • !
    Removing tape too quickly (skin tears)

Practice this skill step-by-step

The static walkthrough above is the marketing overview. The full step-by-step interactive practice (with critical-step highlighting, per-step "why this matters" rationale, and what graders watch for on each individual step) is unlocked with a subscription.

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Related phlebotomy special skills

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Collection — Radial Artery
Radial ABG with mandatory Allen's test.
Pediatric Venipuncture
Pediatric draws with butterfly needles and parental presence.
Difficult Draw Management
Manage difficult draws with vein finders and protocol.