Understanding Vasovagal Syncope: Part 1 - The Science Behind the Faint
What happens in your patient's body during a vasovagal response and why it's so common in phlebotomy
Shanise Keith, August 26, 2025
Safety
Recent Posts
The "C" Technique
A practice that is much too common, and much too dangerous.
Shanise Keith, March 07, 2022
I Couldn't Believe My Eyes
A story about a personal phlebotomy experience.
Shanise Keith describes a time when she had her blood drawn, and the unfortunate experience it turned out to be.
Shanise Keith, January 31, 2022
Phlebotomists Facing Verbal, Physical Abuse by Patients
Study underscores the increasing risks to healthcare professionals
This blog post summarizes a recent study of verbal and physical violence inflicted on emergency department personnel including phlebotomists by patients.
Dennis Ernst, July 27, 2021
How to Manage Patients Who Pass Out
Knowing how to prevent fainting during a phlebotomy procedure is critical
When a patient passes out during a venipuncture procedure, this post details exactly what to do and what not to do.
Dennis Ernst, July 19, 2021
Eight Questions Every Phlebotomist MUST Answer Correctly: #6
How do you anticipate fainting?
Dennis Ernst, June 01, 2021
Safety First: Capri slacks
Are they appropriate for healthcare attire?
Dennis Ernst, December 04, 2020
What's Wrong Here?
Can you identify the error being committed in this image?
Dennis Ernst, December 04, 2020
What's Wrong Here?
Can you find the phlebotomy error being committed in this image?
Dennis Ernst, September 07, 2020
Canadian Phlebotomists, Lab Techs Demanding Pandemic Pay
Covid-19 is increasing the hazards of being a laboratory professional
Dennis Ernst, August 07, 2020