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Aftercare information for blood taking procedures

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, phone 999 immediately for medical assistance.

Side effects
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

220 Badsley Moor Lane
Rotherham
S65 2QU

Doncaster

2 Jubilee Close
Tickhill Road Site
Balby
Doncaster
DN4 8QN

North Lincolnshire

Meridian House
Normanby Road
Scunthorpe
DN15 8QZ


Document control

  • Document reference: DP8264/06.2.
  • Date reviewed: June 2024.

Page last reviewed: December 05, 2024
Next review due: December 05, 2025

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