"Phlebotomise" is a medical term that refers to the act of drawing blood from a patient's veins. It is spelled with a "ph" at the beginning, indicating that it comes from the Greek word "phleps" (meaning "vein"). The second part of the word, "botomise", is spelled with a "b" (instead of an "m") due to the influence of the Greek suffix "-tomia" (meaning "cut"). When pronounced, "phlebotomise" sounds like /flɪˈbɒtəmaɪz/, with the stress on the second syllable.
Phlebotomise, also spelled as "phlebotomize," is a verb that refers to the act of drawing or removing blood from a person's body for medical purposes, typically through the use of a needle or other medical instrument. The term derives from the Greek word "phlebos" meaning "vein" and "tome" meaning "cut," which together illustrate the action of cutting into or puncturing a vein to extract blood.
In healthcare settings, phlebotomy is a critical procedure performed by trained professionals known as phlebotomists, nurses, or medical laboratory technicians. They use sterile techniques to collect blood samples from patients, which are then analyzed in laboratories to assist in diagnosing medical conditions, monitoring diseases, or evaluating overall health status. Phlebotomists carefully follow protocols to ensure patient safety, like using proper disposal methods for needles and maintaining aseptic environments.
The process of phlebotomising involves locating suitable veins, disinfecting the area, and inserting a needle to withdraw an appropriate amount of blood. Phlebotomy might include multiple blood collection methods, such as venipuncture (puncture of a vein with a needle), fingerstick (puncture of a fingertip), or heelstick (puncture of an infant's heel for blood sampling). Phlebotomising requires precision, skill, and the ability to handle patients who may be anxious about needles or blood draws.
Overall, phlebotomising plays an essential role in the diagnostic and therapeutic processes of modern medicine, aiding in the identification and treatment of numerous medical conditions by analyzing blood samples through various techniques and tests.
To let blood from a vein.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "phlebotomise" is derived from the Greek words "phleb(o)" meaning "vein" and "tomia" meaning "cutting" or "incision". In ancient times, bloodletting was often performed by making incisions in the veins of patients to balance their bodily fluids. The term "phlebotomise" (or "phlebotomize" in American English) refers to the act of performing a venipuncture or bloodletting procedure.