Phlebotomy, the practice of drawing blood for medical purposes, involves a unique set of terms and concepts that are essential for understanding the field. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student studying phlebotomy, or simply curious about the terminology used in this field, this page will provide you with a concise and informative list of key terms. From blood collection techniques to laboratory procedures and infection control measures, this compilation of phlebotomy terminology and abbreviations will help you navigate the intricacies of this vital healthcare practice. Expand your knowledge and enhance your understanding of phlebotomy with this essential glossary of terms.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| ABG | Arterial Blood Gas test that measures the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acidity (pH) in arterial blood, providing information about the respiratory and metabolic status of a patient |
| ABO Blood Group | A classification system that categorizes human blood into four major groups (A, B, AB, and O) based on the presence or absence of specific antigens (A and B) on the surface of red blood cells |
| Absorb | To take in or soak up a substance or liquid |
| Acid-Citrate-Dextrose (ACD) | An anticoagulant solution used to prevent blood clotting during blood collection or processing; it contains citric acid, sodium citrate, and dextrose |
| Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) | A chronic, life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which attacks the immune system, resulting in a weakened ability to fight off infections and diseases |
| Acute | Referring to a condition or disease that has a sudden onset and a short duration |
| Adsorb | To adhere or attach to the surface of another substance |
| Aerobic | Requiring or thriving in the presence of oxygen |
| Aerosol Canisters | Devices that release substances in the form of fine particles or droplets into the air, commonly used for respiratory treatments or medication delivery |
| AHF | Antihemophilic factor, also known as Factor VIII, a clotting protein that is deficient or absent in individuals with hemophilia A |
| AIDS | Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, a chronic, life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which attacks the immune system, resulting in a weakened ability to fight off infections and diseases |
| Airborne Precautions | Measures taken to prevent the transmission of infectious agents that can be carried through the air |
| Albumin | A protein found in the blood plasma that helps regulate osmotic pressure and transport substances |
| Allergen | A substance that triggers an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive to it |
| Anaerobic | Referring to a condition or organism that can survive or thrive in the absence of oxygen |
| Anaphylaxis | A severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by a rapid onset and systemic symptoms |
| Anemia | A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, resulting in reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood |
| Anesthetic | A substance that causes loss of sensation or pain relief |
| Antecubital fossa | The area on the inner side of the elbow |
| Anterior | Referring to the front or forward part of a structure or body |
| Antibody | A protein produced by the immune system in response to the presence of a specific antigen, helping to neutralize or eliminate the antigen |
| Anticoagulant | A substance that prevents blood from clotting |
| Antigen | A foreign substance, such as a bacteria or virus, that triggers an immune response and stimulates the production of antibodies |
| Antihemophilic factor | A clotting factor, specifically factor VIII, that is essential for blood clotting and is deficient in individuals with hemophilia A |
| Anti-platelet agents | Medications that inhibit the aggregation of platelets, reducing the risk of blood clot formation |
| Antiseptic | A substance that inhibits the growth or kills microorganisms on living tissue, reducing the risk of infection |
| Apheresis | A procedure that involves the removal and selective separation of specific components from blood, such as platelets or plasma |
| Arteriole | A small branch of an artery that leads to capillaries |
| Arteriovenous Fistula | A surgically created connection between an artery and a vein, often in the arm, used for long-term vascular access in hemodialysis treatments |
| Artery | A blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood away from the heart |
| Aseptic | Free from disease-causing microorganisms |
| Aseptic Technique | A set of practices used to prevent the introduction or spread of infection during medical procedures, involving strict hygiene, disinfection, and the use of sterile equipment and techniques |
| Aspirate | To withdraw or remove fluid or air by suction |
| Autohemolysis | The destruction or breakdown of one’s own red blood cells |
| Bacteremia | The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream |
| Basal State | The metabolic and physiological condition of the body when at rest and in a fasting state, typically used as a reference for laboratory tests and measurements |
| Basilic vein | A vein located on the inner side of the upper arm, commonly used for venipuncture |
| Basophil | A type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and immune responses, containing granules that release substances such as histamine |
| Betadine | A brand name for povidone-iodine, an antiseptic solution commonly used to disinfect the skin before medical procedures |
| Biohazard | A biological substance that poses a threat to human health or the environment |
| Bleeding-time | A test that measures the time it takes for blood to clot |
| Blind stick | A venipuncture technique where the vein is not directly visible and is accessed based on palpation or estimation |
| Blood | A vital fluid in the body that carries oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products, and plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis |
| Blood cell | Cells found in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets |
| Blood clot | A gel-like mass formed by the clumping together of platelets and the activation of clotting factors |
| Blood Clotting Factor | Proteins in the blood that are essential for the formation of blood clots, including factors I (fibrinogen), II (prothrombin), V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, XIII, and von Willebrand factor |
| Blood count | A laboratory test that quantifies the number and types of blood cells present in a given sample |
| Blood culture | A laboratory test that is used to detect the presence of microorganisms, such as bacteria, in the blood |
| Blood film | A thin layer of blood spread on a glass slide for microscopic examination and evaluation |
| Blood group | A classification of blood based on specific antigens present on the surface of red blood cells |
| Blood letting | The therapeutic or diagnostic practice of intentionally withdrawing blood from a patient |
| Blood Smear | A thin layer of blood spread on a microscope slide for examination under a microscope, used to assess the morphology and characteristics of blood cells |
| Blood Transfer Device | A device designed to facilitate the safe transfer of blood or other biological samples from one container to another without exposure to potentially infectious material |
| Blood vessel | A tubular structure that carries blood throughout the body, including arteries, veins, and capillaries |
| Blood-borne pathogens | Infectious microorganisms, such as viruses or bacteria, that can be transmitted through blood |
| Bruise | A discoloration of the skin caused by the rupture of blood vessels beneath the surface due to injury |
| Butterfly | A type of needle with flexible plastic wings, allowing for easier handling and stabilization during venipuncture |
| Butterfly Needle | A small needle attached to a flexible plastic tubing |
| Cannula | A small tube or catheter used to access a vein or artery for medical purposes |
| Capillary | The smallest blood vessel in the body that connects arterioles and venules, allowing for the exchange of nutrients and waste products |
| Capillary Blood | Blood collected from capillaries, usually by fingerstick or heelstick |
| Carbamate Hemoglobin | A type of hemoglobin that forms when carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, reducing its ability to carry oxygen |
| Carboxyhemoglobin | A compound formed when carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in the blood, impairing the ability of hemoglobin to transport oxygen |
| Catheter | A flexible tube used to access or deliver fluids or medication into the body through a body cavity or blood vessel |
| CBC | Complete Blood Count, a common blood test that provides information about the number and characteristics of different blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets |
| Central venous catheter | A catheter that is placed in a large vein, such as the subclavian or jugular vein, for various medical purposes |
| Centrifuge | A laboratory instrument that uses centrifugal force to separate components of a liquid mixture based on their density, commonly used to separate blood components such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets |
| Cephalic vein | A vein located on the outer side of the upper arm, commonly used for venipuncture |
| Chain of Custody | The process of maintaining a documented trail of the handling, storage, and transportation of specimens for legal purposes |
| Chain of Infection | The process of transmission of infectious agents from one person to another |
| Chelate | A compound that forms a complex with a metal ion, preventing its reactivity or facilitating its removal from a system |
| Chromatin | The combination of DNA, RNA, and proteins that forms chromosomes in the nucleus of a cell |
| Circulation | The continuous movement of blood through the cardiovascular system, facilitated by the heart, blood vessels, and blood |
| Circulatory System | The system of blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries) and the heart that transports blood throughout the body |
| Citrate | A salt or ester of citric acid, often used as an anticoagulant in blood collection tubes to prevent clotting |
| Citrate Phosphate Dextrose (CPD) | An anticoagulant solution used to prevent blood clotting during blood collection or processing; it contains citric acid, sodium citrate, and dextrose |
| Citrate Phosphate Dextrose Adenine (CPDA-1) | An anticoagulant solution used to prevent blood clotting during blood collection or processing; it contains citric acid, sodium citrate, dextrose, and adenine |
| Citric Acid Cycle | Also known as the Krebs Cycle or TCA Cycle, a series of chemical reactions that occur in the mitochondria, producing energy in the form of ATP from the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins |
| Clot | The semi-solid mass formed by the coagulation of blood, which helps to prevent excessive bleeding and promote wound healing |
| Coagulate | To form a clot or solid mass, usually referring to the process of blood clotting |
| Coagulation | The process of blood clot formation |
| Coagulation Factors | A group of proteins in the blood that work together to form a blood clot when there is injury or damage to blood vessels |
| Cohorting | The practice of grouping or isolating patients with similar infectious conditions in order to prevent the spread of infection within healthcare settings |
| Collateral circulation | Alternate pathways of blood flow that develop to compensate for a blocked or narrowed blood vessel |
| Complete blood count (CBC) | A laboratory test that provides information about the cellular components of blood, including red and white blood cells, and platelets |
| Contact Precautions | Measures taken to prevent the transmission of infectious agents through direct or indirect contact with a contaminated individual |
| Contagious | Capable of being transmitted from one person to another through direct or indirect contact |
| Contamination | The presence of harmful substances or microorganisms in an environment or on surfaces that can cause infection or illness |
| Contusion | A bruise or injury to the skin or tissue resulting from blunt force or trauma |
| Coumadin | A brand name for warfarin sodium, an anticoagulant medication that helps to prevent blood clots by inhibiting the synthesis of certain clotting factors in the liver |
| Cytoplasm | The fluid portion of a cell, excluding the nucleus |
| Defibrinated blood | Blood that has been treated to remove fibrinogen, a protein involved in the blood clotting process |
| Dialysis | A medical procedure used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function adequately |
| Diaphoretic | Pertaining to sweating or causing sweating |
| Differential | A laboratory test that provides a breakdown of the types of white blood cells present in a given blood sample |
| Disinfectant | A substance or agent that is used to destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on surfaces or in the environment, reducing the risk of infection |
| Distal | Situated away from the point of attachment or origin |
| Dorsal | Referring to the back or posterior side of the body or a body part |
| Ecchymosis | A discoloration of the skin caused by the extravasation or leakage of blood into the surrounding tissue |
| Edema | Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces, leading to swelling of tissues |
| EDTA | Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a chelating agent commonly used as an anticoagulant in blood collection tubes to prevent clotting |
| Efferent | Carrying or conducting away from a central organ or part |
| Effluent | A fluid or substance that flows out of a structure or system |
| Electrolyte | A substance that dissociates into ions when dissolved in a solvent, such as water, and is essential for many physiological processes in the body |
| Embolus | A clot or other foreign material that travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel |
| EMLA cream | A topical anesthetic cream containing a combination of lidocaine and prilocaine, used to numb the skin prior to needle insertion |
| Endothelium | The layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels, providing a smooth surface for blood flow and regulating vascular functions |
| Engineering Control | Safety measures or devices designed to eliminate or minimize exposure to hazards in the workplace, such as sharps containers or safety-engineered devices for blood collection |
| Eosinophil | A type of white blood cell involved in immune responses against parasites and allergic reactions, characterized by the presence of eosinophilic granules in the cytoplasm |
| Epidemiology | The study of patterns, causes, and effects of diseases in populations, often involving the analysis of data to identify risk factors, patterns of transmission, and strategies for disease prevention |
| Epidermis | The outermost layer of the skin, serving as a protective barrier against pathogens and water loss |
| Epithelium | Tissue that covers the internal and external surfaces of the body, including the lining of blood vessels, organs, and body cavities |
| Erythrocyte | A red blood cell responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues and removing carbon dioxide |
| Etiology | The study or science of the causes or origins of diseases or conditions |
| Evacuated Tube | A type of collection tube with a vacuum seal for blood collection |
| Factor VIII | A blood clotting protein, also known as antihemophilic factor, that is deficient in individuals with hemophilia A |
| Faint | A temporary loss of consciousness or a feeling of lightheadedness and weakness, often caused by a temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain |
| Fasting | Refraining from eating or drinking for a specific period of time, usually before a medical test or procedure |
| Fibrin | An insoluble protein that forms a network of fibers during blood clot formation |
| Fibrinogen | A soluble blood plasma protein that is converted into insoluble fibrin during the clotting process |
| Fistula | An abnormal connection or passage between two body structures, usually referring to an abnormal connection between blood vessels |
| Flash-Back | The moment when blood is seen or aspirated into the flashback chamber of a needle or catheter, indicating successful entry into a blood vessel |
| Flexion | The act of bending or the state of being bent |
| Gauge | A measurement unit used to determine the diameter or thickness of a needle or catheter |
| Germicide | A substance or agent that destroys or inactivates microorganisms, particularly those that cause disease |
| Glucose | A simple sugar that serves as the primary source of energy for cells and is essential for normal body functions |
| Graft | A surgical procedure in which a piece of living tissue or an organ is transplanted or implanted into a different part of the body or into another individual |
| Harvesting | The process of collecting or obtaining tissue, organs, or cells for transplantation or further use |
| Hematocrit | The percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume |
| Hematoma | A localized collection of blood outside the blood vessels, usually due to improper venipuncture |
| Hemoconcentration | An increase in the concentration of cells and solids in the blood due to a decrease in fluid volume |
| Hemodialysis | A process of blood purification used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the body when the kidneys are unable to function properly |
| Hemoglobin | The protein molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen |
| Hemolysis | The breaking open of red blood cells during blood collection, resulting in the release of hemoglobin |
| Hemostasis | The physiological process of stopping bleeding or the control of blood flow through a damaged blood vessel |
| Heparin | An anticoagulant medication that prevents the formation of blood clots and is commonly used in medical procedures |
| Hepatitis | Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infection or exposure to toxins |
| Hepatitis A | A type of viral hepatitis caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), typically transmitted through contaminated food or water |
| Hepatitis B | A type of viral hepatitis caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), commonly transmitted through blood, bodily fluids, or sexual contact |
| Hepatitis C | A type of viral hepatitis caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact |
| Hickman Catheter | A type of central venous catheter used for long-term intravenous access, consisting of a catheter inserted into a large vein with an attached external cuff or subcutaneous port for secure placement and access |
| HIV | Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) by attacking and weakening the immune system |
| Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) | The virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) by attacking and weakening the immune system |
| Humoral | Relating to or involving body fluids, especially the blood or lymph, in immune responses |
| Hyperglycemia | High blood sugar levels, often associated with diabetes or an inability of the body to properly regulate glucose |
| Hypersensitivity | An exaggerated or abnormal immune response to an allergen or foreign substance, resulting in various symptoms or allergic reactions |
| Hypodermic needle | A hollow needle used for injecting or withdrawing fluids or medication beneath the skin |
| Hypoglycemia | Low blood sugar levels, often associated with diabetes or an imbalance in insulin or glucose metabolism |
| ICD9 code | A coding system used to classify and report medical diagnoses and procedures using numerical codes |
| Implant | A medical device or material that is surgically placed within the body to replace or support a damaged or missing body part or function |
| Informed Consent | The voluntary agreement of a patient to undergo a medical procedure after understanding the risks and benefits |
| Invitro | A Latin term meaning “in glass,” referring to processes or experiments conducted outside of a living organism, typically in a laboratory setting |
| Krebs Cycle | Also known as the Citric Acid Cycle or TCA Cycle, a series of chemical reactions that occur in the mitochondria, producing energy in the form of ATP from the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins |
| Laminar Flow Hood | A specialized workspace or cabinet equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter that provides a sterile environment for working with microorganisms or substances that require aseptic conditions |
| Lancet | A small, sharp instrument with a needle or blade used to pierce the skin for blood sampling or medical procedures |
| Lateral | Situated or positioned away from the midline of the body or a body part |
| Leukocyte | A white blood cell, part of the immune system, involved in defending the body against infections and foreign substances |
| Lymph | A colorless fluid containing white blood cells that circulates throughout the lymphatic system, aiding in immune response and waste removal |
| Lymphedema | Swelling caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid in tissues, typically due to damage or blockage in the lymphatic system |
| Lymphocyte | A type of white blood cell involved in immune responses, including the production of antibodies and the destruction of infected or abnormal cells |
| Lysosome | A membrane-bound organelle within cells that contains enzymes responsible for breaking down and recycling cellular waste materials |
| Lytes | A shorthand term for electrolytes, which are ions in the body fluids that help maintain proper cellular function and fluid balance |
| Macrophage | A type of white blood cell that engulfs and destroys foreign substances, microorganisms, and cellular debris through a process called phagocytosis |
| MCH – Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin | A measure of the average amount of hemoglobin within a red blood cell, calculated by dividing the total amount of hemoglobin by the number of red blood cells |
| MCHC – Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration | A measure of the average concentration of hemoglobin within a given volume of red blood cells, calculated by dividing the total amount of hemoglobin by the total volume of red blood cells |
| MCV – Mean Corpuscular Volume | A measure of the average size of red blood cells, calculated by dividing the total volume of red blood cells by the number of red blood cells |
| Medial | Situated or positioned toward the midline of the body or a body part |
| Medial cubital vein | A superficial vein located in the antecubital fossa that is commonly used for venipuncture |
| Microcapillary | A small, thin-walled blood vessel with a diameter smaller than that of a regular capillary |
| Monocyte | A type of white blood cell that plays a role in immune defense, phagocytosis, and antigen presentation |
| Mononuclear | Pertaining to or characterized by a single nucleus |
| Multi-Sample Adapter | A device or attachment used to connect multiple blood collection tubes to a single needle or venipuncture site, allowing for the sequential collection of blood samples |
| Negative Air Pressure | A condition in which air pressure inside a confined space is lower than the atmospheric pressure outside, creating a pressure gradient that helps to prevent the escape of airborne contaminants and pathogens |
| Neutrophil | The most abundant type of white blood cell, involved in the immune response against bacterial and fungal infections, characterized by multi-lobed nuclei and granules that contain antimicrobial substances |
| Nosocomial infection | An infection acquired in a hospital or healthcare setting |
| Order of Draw | The specific sequence in which blood collection tubes should be used to minimize cross-contamination |
| Other Potentially Infectious Material (OPIM) | Any materials or substances that may contain pathogens or potentially infectious agents, including blood, tissues, cell cultures, and other biological materials |
| Oxyhemoglobin | Hemoglobin that is combined with oxygen, giving it a bright red color |
| Pallor | Unnatural paleness or lack of color in the skin or mucous membranes, often associated with reduced blood flow or anemia |
| Palmar | Relating to or situated in the palm of the hand |
| Palpate | To examine or explore by touch, usually referring to feeling for the location of blood vessels or other structures |
| Parafilm™ | A brand of thermoplastic film commonly used in laboratories to create a semi-permeable barrier or seal around containers or surfaces, providing protection against contamination |
| Pathogen | A disease-causing microorganism, such as a bacterium, virus, or fungus |
| Pathogenic | Capable of causing or producing disease |
| Peripheral blood | Blood circulating through the vessels outside of the heart and lungs |
| Peritoneal Dialysis | A method of dialysis that involves the use of the peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdominal cavity, as a natural filter to remove waste products and excess fluids from the body |
| Peritoneum | A thin, serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the abdominal organs |
| pH | A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, representing the concentration of hydrogen ions; pH values below 7 are acidic, pH values of 7 are neutral, and pH values above 7 are alkaline |
| Phagocytosis | The process by which cells engulf and ingest solid particles or microorganisms, such as bacteria or cellular debris |
| Phlebitis | Inflammation of a vein, often caused by infection, trauma, or irritation |
| Phlebotomist | A healthcare professional trained in phlebotomy |
| Phlebotomy | The process of drawing blood from a patient’s vein |
| Pipet | A laboratory instrument used to transfer or measure small volumes of liquid |
| Plasma | The liquid component of blood that contains water, proteins, hormones, and other substances |
| Platelet | A small, disc-shaped cell fragment involved in blood clotting and the repair of damaged blood vessels |
| Plateletpheresis | A procedure that involves the selective removal of platelets from blood, while returning the remaining components back to the donor |
| Polymorphonuclear | Referring to a type of white blood cell, such as a neutrophil, that has a multi-lobed nucleus |
| Posterior | Referring to the back or rear side of the body or a body part |
| Povidone-iodine | An antiseptic solution containing povidone and iodine, commonly used to clean and disinfect the skin before medical procedures |
| Prone | Lying face down or with the front of the body facing downward |
| Prophylaxis | Preventive measures or treatment taken to prevent the occurrence or spread of disease |
| Protoplasm | The living substance or material within a cell, composed of cytoplasm and the nucleus |
| Proximal | Situated or positioned near the point of attachment or origin |
| QNS | Abbreviation for “Quantity Not Sufficient,” indicating that the amount of a sample collected is not enough for analysis or testing |
| Red blood cell (RBC) | A cellular component of blood that contains hemoglobin and carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body |
| Reverse Isolation | A protective measure in healthcare settings to minimize the risk of infection by isolating individuals who have compromised immune systems or are highly susceptible to infections |
| Rh System | A blood group system that categorizes blood based on the presence or absence of the Rh antigen on the surface of red blood cells, including Rh positive (+) and Rh negative (-) blood types |
| Sclerosis | The hardening or thickening of a tissue or structure, often due to the formation of fibrous connective tissue |
| Semipermeable | Allowing certain substances or solvents to pass through while restricting the passage of others |
| Serum | The liquid component of blood that remains after the blood has clotted, containing various proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and waste products |
| Specimen | A sample of blood or other bodily fluid collected for testing or analysis |
| Standard Precautions | A set of infection control practices that apply to all patients in healthcare settings, regardless of their infectious status, to prevent the transmission of pathogens |
| Stat | An abbreviation for the Latin term “statim,” meaning immediately or without delay |
| Supine | Lying horizontally with the face and torso facing upward |
| Syncope | Temporary loss of consciousness or fainting, often caused by a temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain |
| Syncope (Vasovagal Syncope) | A temporary loss of consciousness due to a transient decrease in blood flow to the brain, often triggered by emotional stress, pain, or other factors |
| Syringe | A device used for injecting or withdrawing fluids from the body, consisting of a barrel, plunger, and needle or nozzle |
| Therapeutic | Pertaining to the treatment or management of a disease or medical condition |
| Thrombocyte | Another term for platelet, a small cell fragment involved in blood clotting and wound healing |
| Thrombocytopenia | A condition characterized by a low platelet count in the blood, which can result in an increased risk of bleeding |
| Thrombosis | The formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, which can obstruct blood flow and potentially lead to serious complications |
| Thrombus | A blood clot that forms and remains within a blood vessel |
| Tourniquet | A device used to apply pressure to a limb to restrict blood flow during venipuncture |
| Transmission-Based Precautions | Additional infection control measures applied to patients with known or suspected infectious conditions that require specific precautions beyond Standard Precautions |
| Transplant | The surgical procedure of transferring a tissue, organ, or cells from one location or individual (donor) to another (recipient) for the purpose of restoring function or treating disease |
| Universal (Standard) Precautions | The practice of using infection control measures, such as hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, and safe handling of sharps, with all patients to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases |
| Vacuole | A membrane-bound organelle found in cells that functions in storage, waste disposal, and structural support |
| Vacutainer™ | A trademarked name for a type of blood collection tube that uses a vacuum to draw blood into the tube during venipuncture |
| Vacutainer™ Holder | A device designed to securely hold Vacutainer™ blood collection tubes during venipuncture |
| Vacutainer™ Needle | A type of needle specifically designed for use with Vacutainer™ blood collection tubes, often featuring a safety mechanism to prevent accidental needlestick injuries |
| Vacutainer™ System | A system used for blood collection, consisting of Vacutainer™ tubes, a Vacutainer™ holder, and a Vacutainer™ needle |
| Vacutainer™ tube | A type of blood collection tube, often made of plastic or glass, used for the collection and storage of blood samples for laboratory testing |
| Vascular | Relating to blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries |
| Vascular Graft | A surgical procedure in which a piece of synthetic or natural material is used to replace or bypass a diseased or damaged blood vessel, restoring blood flow and circulation |
| Vasoconstriction | The narrowing of blood vessels, resulting in a decrease in blood flow and an increase in blood pressure |
| Vasovagal Response | A physiological response characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, often resulting in fainting or syncope, triggered by various factors such as pain, emotional stress, or certain medical procedures |
| Vein | A blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood to the heart |
| Venesection | The medical procedure of intentionally withdrawing blood from a vein, also known as phlebotomy or bloodletting |
| Venipuncture | The technique of puncturing a vein for blood collection |
| Venous | Pertaining to veins, the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart |
| Ventral | Relating to or situated on the front or anterior side of the body or a body part |
| Venule | A small blood vessel that collects blood from capillaries and carries it to veins |
| Volar | Relating to or situated on the palm of the hand or the sole of the foot |
| Warfarin Sodium | An anticoagulant medication commonly prescribed to prevent blood clot formation by inhibiting the synthesis of certain clotting factors in the liver |
| White blood cell | A cellular component of blood that plays a vital role in the immune system’s defense against infections and diseases |
| White blood cell count | A laboratory test that measures the number of white blood cells present in a given volume of blood |
| Whole blood | Blood that has not been separated or processed into its individual components, such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets |
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