Not for the squeamish.

On what subject(s) are you an authority?

The only subject I feel a complete authority on is drawing blood. The vein must be located, then anchored before quickly and confidently inserted, then removed and pressure applied for a couple of minutes before applying a bandage.

Unless you’re drawing for a liter of blood with a big bore needle. Everything is the same except pressure must be applied for much longer.

I’ve worked at a cancer treatment center for several years, and in these years my skill and confidence grew, although I was pretty cocky when I first arrived. The first thing I had to do to prove myself was draw blood from my boss-to-be, the best boss I ever had.

I did such a good job, I was hired on the spot. I’d had lots of experience since I was Army trained, and worked at a lab in a hospital before taking the job at the cancer center. I learned to use butterflies, insert IV’s and intercatheters.

It takes compassion and a gentle yet confident touch. I hate when people don’t take the time to really look for, and then anchor the vein. The dig and search, causing pain and bruising. I’ve been the recipient of that kind of draw and at times may have caused pain myself, but chemo patients have very schlerosed veins. (dried up from overuse)

I was good enough that even after many years not working, if I had to start again today, it wouldn’t be a problem. Its just like riding a bike. 😘