Some commercial products are available designed to alleviate pain from venipuncture.
Cream: A topical cream can be applied to numb the venipuncture site. Apply well in advance to be effective. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions before use on patients. Ensure that no allergy exists before using the product on a child.
Mechanical device: A mechanical device can stimulate nerves surrounding the venipuncture site to numb the site. This device must be used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Vein Viewer: This device enables the phlebotomist to determine the flow of blood, thereby identifying the presence and direction of a vein. It does not aid during palpation of the vein to determine vein health, diameter, or depth.
