Fainting can happen to anyone, even if you’re healthy. You might feel lightheaded or dizzy, and then suddenly lose consciousness. Many people struggle with getting blood drawn, whether for tests or donations, because our bodies can react unexpectedly, even if we’re not feeling anxious.
This reaction is often due to a vasovagal response, which is your nervous system’s way of reacting physically. It can be triggered by seeing a needle, your own blood, or just the anxiety of the situation. Some people might feel nauseous, dizzy, start sweating, look pale, or experience changes in heart rate. In some cases, they might even faint.
To stay calm during a blood draw, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or visualization. Picture yourself on a peaceful beach or another calming place, and close your eyes. Some people find it helpful to look away from the needle to avoid seeing the blood. You can also distract yourself by listening to music or chatting with the technician.
The most common cause of fainting, especially in young people and children, is neurally-mediated syncope, also known as a vasovagal reaction. This happens when blood pressure drops, and the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen. It can be triggered by anxiety, emotional stress, or the sight of blood. While it might cause minor injuries like cuts or bruises from falls, this type of fainting is generally harmless.
Before a vasovagal reaction, your skin might turn pale, and you could feel lightheaded, with tunnel or blurred vision. You might also feel nauseous, warm, or break into a cold sweat, and start yawning. Others might notice your pupils dilating or jerky movements. A slow or weak pulse is another sign.
If you feel faint, stretching your muscles or crossing your legs might help delay or prevent it. Lying down and raising your legs can also help. However, if you’ve fainted during a blood draw before, avoid lying down.
Sometimes, venipuncture can cause fainting. If a patient feels lightheaded or faint, they should inform the phlebotomist, who can then take precautions to ensure safety. The phlebotomist might ask the patient to lie down to reduce the risk of falling and injury.
If a patient faints during the procedure, the phlebotomist should gently remove the needle and tourniquet, apply pressure with gauze, and call for help. If the patient is sitting, placing their head between their knees can help. A cold compress on the neck can also aid in recovery. It’s unsafe to use ammonia inhalants, as they can cause irritation or anaphylactic shock. Typically, fainting spells are self-limiting, and the patient recovers quickly. The phlebotomist should stay with the patient for 15 to 30 minutes to ensure full recovery.
If a patient feels dizzy after blood collection, the phlebotomist should have them place their head between their knees and apply a cold compress to the neck. The patient shouldn’t be moved while dizzy, as walking could lead to fainting and injury. The patient shouldn’t leave the facility until they can walk safely, and they shouldn’t drive for at least 30 minutes after regaining consciousness.
It’s crucial to review your facility’s procedures and know how to respond to patients who feel dizzy or faint during blood collection.
