It is important to ensure that the needle is removed correctly on completion of blood sampling and that the risk of haematoma formation is minimized. Pressure should be applied as the needle is removed from the skin. If pressure is applied too early, it causes the tip of the needle to drag along the intima of the vein, resulting in sharp pain and damage to the lining of the vessel (McCall and Tankersley [138]).

The practitioner should ensure that firm pressure is maintained until bleeding has stopped. The patient should also be instructed to keep their arm straight and not bend it as this increases the risk of bruising (McCall and Tankersley [138]). A longer period of pressure may be necessary where the patient's blood may take longer to clot, for example if the patient is receiving anticoagulants or is thrombocytopenic. The practitioner may choose to apply the tourniquet over the venepuncture site to ensure even and constant pressure on the area (Dougherty [53]). Alternatively, if safe and practical, they can elevate the arm slightly above the heart to decrease venous pressure (Weinstein and Hagle [252]).

The practitioner should inspect the site carefully for bleeding or bruising before applying a dressing and before the patient leaves the department. If bruising has occurred, the patient should be informed of why this has happened and given instructions for what to do to reduce the bruising and any associated pain.