Which of the following conditions may cause a patient to bleed longer than normal after a phlebotomy procedure?
Polycythemia vera is a rare blood disorder in which there is an increase in all blood cells, particularly red blood cells. The increase in blood cells makes your blood thicker. This can lead to strokes or tissue and organ damage. Polycythemia vera is
caused by a genetic change (mutation) that develops during your lifetime. It is not an inherited genetic disorder. In most cases it is not known why this happens. When you have more blood and it is thicker than normal, problems can occur. Each person’s symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include:
These symptoms may look like other blood disorders or health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is polycythemia vera diagnosed?Your healthcare provider will take your medical history and give you a physical exam. Your provider may also do blood tests. These tests will check the increased number of red blood cells in your body. They will also check if there are other conditions that could cause your higher red blood cell count. How is polycythemia vera treated?Your healthcare provider will figure out the best treatment based on:
Treatment may include:
What are the complications of polycythemia vera?Polycythemia vera can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated. It can cause blood clots resulting in a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. Liver and spleen enlargement are other possible complications. Living with polycythemia veraThere is no cure for polycythemia vera, but proper treatment can help to reduce or delay any problems. Work with your healthcare provider to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. You should also be physically active in order to increase your heart rate and improve your blood flow. Other ways to improve your blood flow include:
You should also avoid situations in which you could be hurt, and check your feet for any sores. Key points about polycythemia vera
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
What can cause excessive bleeding from the site following venipuncture?Petechiae may occur following venepuncture. This may be due to coagulation problems or abnormalities [4,6]. The patient may bleed excessively after blood collection; make sure bleeding stops prior to leaving the patient. Excessive bleeding after venepucture can occur.
What are the factors that can affect the results of the bleeding time?A number of factors effect bleeding time results. A patient history of: von Willebrand's disease, thrombcytopenia, inherited platelet dysfunction, recent NSAID or antihistamine use can all prolong bleeding time. Using the ear lobe method, a normal bleeding time is between 1 and 4 minutes.
What causes hematomas during phlebotomy?Venipuncture technique
If the phlebotomist pushes the needle too far into and through the vein, blood leaks out of that opening and into the surrounding tissue. The appearance of a blue or purple discoloration at the venipuncture site indicates the presence of a hematoma.
What are the after effects of a phlebotomy?Side Effects. Dizziness or lightheadedness.. Fainting.. Low blood pressure.. Soreness, redness, burning or pain where the needle was placed.. Bruising where needle was placed.. Nausea and vomiting.. |