Aftercare information for carers or family who are supporting an individual following the blood taking procedure, including oral sedation and, or safe holds
After the blood taking procedure it is important that you:
- offer reassurance and support
- encourage rest
- monitor both physical and emotional wellbeing (please refer to table on next page)
The patient may experience some side effects. In most cases these side effects or symptoms are common and will cause no lasting injury or distress.
However if the patient should experience any of the following rare side effects, telephone 999 immediately for medical assistance.
| Common | Rare |
|---|---|
| Bruising | Abnormal breathing |
| Redness | Confusion |
| Sleepiness | Prolonged sleep |
| Small swelling | Presenting as unwell |
| Lethargic | Unconscious |
Less common and less serious effects of venepuncture are:
- puncturing an artery (staff are able to manage this event)
- hitting a nerve (this causes severe pain and can last for weeks, to permanent and if serious could require surgical intervention), for more advice or support, please contact your local GP or Community Learning Disability team
After care information for blood taking procedures
For more advice or support, please contact your local GP or community learning disability team, Rotherham learning disabilities.
Rotherham learning disabilities
220 Badsley Moor Lane
Rotherham
S65 2QU
Telephone: 01709 447744
Doncaster learning disabilities
2 Jubilee Close
Tickhill Road Site
Balby
Doncaster
DN4 8QN
Telephone: 01302 796145
North Lincolnshire learning disabilities
Meridian House
Normanby Road
Scunthorpe
DN15 8QZ
Telephone: 01724 270361
Document control
- DP number: DP8264/06.21
Page last reviewed: April 30, 2024
Next review due: April 30, 2025