The venipuncture procedure is complex, requiring both knowledge and skill to perform. Each phlebotomist generally establishes a routine that is comfortable for her or him. Several essential steps are required for every successful collection procedure:

1. Identify the patient.
2. Assess the patient’s physical disposition (i.e. diet, exercise, stress, basal state).
3. Check orders for requested tests, patient information, and any special requirements.
4. Select a suitable site for venipuncture.
5. Prepare the equipment, the patient and the puncture site.
6. Perform the venipuncture.
7. Collect the sample in the appropriate container.
8. Recognize complications associated with the phlebotomy procedure.
9. Assess the need for sample recollection and/or rejection.
10. Label the collection tubes at the home in the presence of the client with 2 identifiers:  client first and last name and date of birth; date and time of collection and initials of nurse performing the collection.
11. Promptly take the specimens with the requisition to the laboratory or prepare for shipment via Lab-in-a-Box.