From Nervous Needles to Vein Victories: Interns Stick the Landing with Venipuncture

Midway through the week, our interns embarked on an exciting journey as part of the Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship program, which aims to provide hands-on experience in various healthcare skills. This event, known as "Skills Day," is dedicated to teaching a wide range of essential medical procedures. Among the many skills covered, venipuncture—drawing blood from a vein—stood out as a highlight. Intern Lillian De La Cruz said, “It was a good mix of learning and fun.” For many interns, this was their first time performing a real medical procedure, and the experience was both challenging and rewarding.

During the 40-minute venipuncture session, the interns gathered in a well-equipped classroom, buzzing with a mix of nerves and excitement. Under the guidance of Ms. Danita Allen, a seasoned healthcare professional with years of experience, they began by learning the theoretical aspects of venipuncture—understanding the anatomy of veins, the types of needles used, and the safety protocols to follow. Ms. Allen emphasized the importance of precision and care, instilling a sense of responsibility in each intern.

Venipuncture is a crucial medical procedure with significant importance in the healthcare field. It involves inserting a needle into a vein, typically in the arm, to draw blood for diagnostic testing, transfusions, donations, or research. Accurate venipuncture is essential because it ensures the quality and integrity of the blood sample, which is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The procedure also minimizes discomfort and risk for the patient. Learning venipuncture is fundamental for many healthcare professionals, including nurses, phlebotomists, and laboratory technicians, making it a vital skill for anyone pursuing a healthcare career.

As the session progressed, the interns moved quickly from theory to practice. Intern Carly Brennan said, “It was something I had never done before and the simulation felt extremely realistic.” They paired up, taking turns being the phlebotomist and the patient, which allowed them to experience both sides of the procedure. The first attempts were understandably hesitant, with trembling hands and anxious faces. However, with Ms. Allen's patient guidance and encouragement, their confidence grew. By the end of the session, many of the interns had successfully drawn blood, their faces lighting up with pride and relief. They had learned not only a valuable medical skill but also the importance of patience, dexterity, and maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.

The end of Skills Day was a moment of reflection and celebration. The interns shared their experiences, talking about their initial fears and how they overcame them. Ms. Allen commended their progress and dedication, reminding them that they had taken an important step toward their future careers in healthcare. The experience of mastering venipuncture in just 40 minutes had given them a tangible taste of the medical world, solidifying their aspirations to pursue careers in healthcare.