When to use Butterfly Sets in Blood Draws
February 17, 2012
Many recent graduates who have obtained their phlebotomy certification through phlebotomy programs have been taught to perform blood draws using the winged-collection method exclusively. While it is certainly easier with most patients preferring it, the practice has drawn much controversy. There are many instances where butterfly use is absolutely called for such as in pediatric patients as well as fragile and difficult to find veins. There is no question that winged collection sets are easier to maneuver, lightweight and provide a lower insertion angle making the procedure less difficult to complete and of course easier for instructors to teach.
While patients and phlebotomy technicians generally prefer butterfly use, many facility administrators limit their use. The reason is that winged collection sets can run as much as ten times the price of conventional safety needles. This poses a genuine concern for facilities that must confirm to budgetary constraints making their exclusive use virtually impossible in most health care settings.
Some administrators have implemented procedures for their use as opposed to withholding them altogether. One system that has proven successful is the setting up of a logbook that requires phlebotomists to checkout butterfly sets as they need them. Another method of controlling the use of butterfly sets is by making the technician physically go into a manager’s office to request a set each time they need one. Other facilities have found that the simple act of having to sign out butterfly sets has drastically reduced their usage. Obviously no phlebotomist should be allowed to compromise a blood draw in an effort to save money. They should however be aware of the tremendous cost and use butterfly sets only when they are called for. Phlebotomy programs must also be aware that budgets are an integral part of any health facility and instruct their students on when to use butterfly sets and when they are simply not necessary. This means that phlebotomy courses have an obligation to adequately train students in all methods of blood collection.
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