The end should have no obstructions or hooks that will restrict the flow of blood.
 Use the needle sheath to secure the needle in the holder.
, Avoid pushing the tube past the recessed line on the needle holder or you may release the vacuum.
 Your thumb should pull the skin taut about 1" to 2" (2.5cm to 5cm) below the puncture site. Make sure the patient's arm points slightly down to avoid reflux.
 Make sure the bevel is up.
 Push the collection tube toward the holder until the butt end of the needle pierces the stopper on the tube. Make sure that the tube is below the puncture site.
 Remove and discard the tourniquet as soon as blood flow into the tube is adequate.
 Mix the contents if the tube contains additives by inverting the tube 5 to 8 times. Do not vigorously shake the tube.
, Place a piece of gauze over the puncture site.
 Place the gauze on top of the venipuncture site and apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding.
Inspect your needle for defects.
Thread the needle into the holder.
Tap any tubes that contain additives to dislodge the additives from the walls of the tube.

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Insert the blood collection tube onto the holder.
Grasp your patient's arm.
Line up the needle with the vein.
Insert the needle into the vein.
Allow the tube to fill.
Remove the tube from the holder when the blood flow ceases.
Fill the remaining tubes until you've completed the requisition.

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Ask the patient to open his or her hand.
Remove the needle.
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