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Arterial stick

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Arterial blood sample

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Arterial stick

Definition:

An arterial stick is collection of blood from an artery for laboratory testing.

Alternative Names:
Blood sample - arterial

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How the test is performed:

Usually the blood is drawn from the wrist. However, it may also be drawn from the inside of the elbow, groin, or other artery. A heartbeat (pulse) is felt by pressing on the area above an artery.

The area is cleaned with antiseptic and a needle inserted. A small amount of anesthetic may be injected or applied before the needle is inserted. The blood will easily flow into the specially prepared (heparinized) syringe.

The needle is removed after there is a sufficient sample of blood. Pressure is applied to the puncture site for 5 - 10 minutes to stop the bleeding. The person will be monitored during this time to make sure the bleeding stops.

How to prepare for the test:

Preparation varies with the specific test performed.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this procedure depends on your child's age and previous experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

Puncture of the artery may be somewhat more uncomfortable than puncture of a vein, and requires firm pressure over the site after it is drawn.

When the needle is inserted, most people feel moderate discomfort or pain. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. The arterial stick is more painful than venipuncture because arteries are deeper than veins, have thicker walls, and have more nerves.