A Comparative Study of Blood Sampling From Venipuncture and Short Peripheral Catheters in Pediatric Inpatients

: This prospective, comparative study examined blood test results, hemolysis rates, and patient perceptions related to 2 blood sampling methods in pediatric inpatients (N = 95). Blood specimens were drawn via venipuncture and a short peripheral catheter used for fluid administration. Results revealed no significant differences in potassium and glucose levels. No clinically significant difference in hemoglobin was noted. Hemolysis rates were 4% for venipuncture samples and 15% when drawn from peripheral catheters. One catheter became occluded after a blood draw. Patients/parents rated distress and dissatisfaction with venipuncture as significantly greater compared with short peripheral catheter blood sampling (P < .001).