Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial

4.2.5 Preparation

4.2.5.1 Preparation of Participants for Phlebotomy

Informed consent must have been obtained before blood is drawn. Use “child friendly approaches”- Child Life guidelines attached. Provide opportunity to use a topical anesthetic (see Attachment A).

Blood drawing is standardized for the sitting position. The venipuncture is performed with a 21 or 25 gauge butterfly needle with 12 inches of plastic tubing between the venipuncture site and the blood collection tubes. The butterfly has a small, thin walled needle that minimizes trauma to the skin and vein. The use of 12 inches of tubing allows tubes to be changed without any movement of the needle in the vein. The participant should be given enough time to feel comfortable both before and after the blood collection. The participant should spend at least 10 minutes in a supine or seated position before blood is drawn. In many cases the most memorable part of the experience for the participant will be the contact with the technicians/nurses who draw the blood and their general attitude and competence. DO NOT under any circumstances force the participant to have blood drawn.