Brian “The IV Guy” on Instagram: "Since we’re on the topic of hands… . Palpation is still the best way to find veins, but a good way of visualizing veins on dark or heavily tattooed skin is to wipe with alcohol. This increases the reflection of light and creates shadows that make the veins more visible. . You can then use a vein marking technique, or pick a landmark on the skin and perform your venipuncture. . There are lots more examples in The IV Video Course! Plus, all my courses are 30% off

Hemolysis starts at the time of draw, not in the lab. When we see that bright red, transparent plasma or serum layer, it usually means red blood cells were destroyed before the sample ever made it to the analyzer. That breakdown releases hemoglobin into the plasma, which can throw off tests for potassium, LDH, AST, bilirubin, and more. Common causes at the time of draw: • Using too small of a needle (too much suction = RBC trauma) • Pulling the syringe plunger too fast • Shaking the tube instead