Arterial stick
Key points
- An arterial stick is collection of blood from an artery for laboratory testing.
- However, it may also be drawn from the inside of the elbow, groin, or other artery.
- The preparation you can provide for this procedure depends on your child's age and previous experience.
- Blood transports oxygen, food, waste products, and other materials within the body.
Alternative names
Blood sample - arterial
Definition
An arterial stick is collection of blood from an artery for laboratory testing.
How the test is performed
Usually the blood is drawn from the wrist. However, it may also be drawn from the inside of the elbow, groin, or other artery. A heartbeat (pulse) is felt by pressing on the area above an artery.
The area is cleaned with antiseptic and a needle inserted. A small amount of anesthetic may be injected or applied before the needle is inserted. The blood will easily flow into the specially prepared (heparinized) syringe.
The needle is removed after there is a sufficient sample of blood. Pressure is applied to the puncture site for 5 to 10 minutes to stop the bleeding. The person will be monitored during this time to make sure the bleeding stops.
How to prepare for the test
Preparation varies with the specific test performed.
For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this procedure depends on your child's age and previous experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
- infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
How the test will feel
Puncture of the artery may be somewhat more uncomfortable than puncture of a vein, and requires firm pressure over the site after it is drawn.
When the needle is inserted, most people feel moderate discomfort or pain. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. The arterial stick is more painful than venipuncture because arteries are deeper than veins, have thicker walls, and have more nerves.
Why the test is performed
Blood transports oxygen, food, waste products, and other materials within the body. It is also regulates body temperature, fluids, and acid-base equilibrium.
Blood is made up of a fluid portion (plasma) and a cellular portion. Plasma contains various substances dissolved in the fluid. The cellular portion consists primarily of red blood cells, but also includes white blood cells and platelets.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.