Phlebotomy has been with humans since the dawn of time. The process involves puncturing one’s vein to draw out blood. Then, an apparatus called the cannula, also known as a needle, draws the blood from the skin. Specialists who are in charge of the practice are known as Phlebotomists. Before modern technology, blood removal was known as Bloodletting by the ancient Egyptians.
It begs the question: how did phlebotomy come to be? You can learn more about the history of the practice in this article. So strap on; it is going to be a journey.
The Roots of Phlebotomy
In 1000BC, ancient Egyptians had a belief that letting blood go off removes impurities. It could also cure people of acne and various diseases. At this time, procedures are conducted by a priest who serves as the phlebotomist.
The Greeks & Romans discovered that imbalances in the blood could cause various illnesses. One Greek physician whose name was Galen discovered that blood is carried in the arteries and veins. Before the discovery, arteries were considered to carry air. Galen from Pergamon believed bloodletting must be performed on the affected area for the best treatment.
By the Medieval Times, barbers had a hand in bloodletting. They used to work in monasteries for keeping the monks clean-shaven. Back then, their names used to be known as “barber-surgeons.” Today the poles you see by the entrance with red, blue, and white stripes are the testimony of their contributions.
Did the bloodletting work? Both yes and no.
Initially practiced, those who did it were not called phlebotomists. Along the way, bloodletting only helped in lowering high blood pressure. For people with high iron levels, physicians moderated their levels. However, when too much blood is drawn out, a person can die. Why? It causes permanent damage.
In the modern age, advancements in science and technology paved standardization.
Phlebotomy Today
Scouting for blood tests is now accessible with the advancements in technology. Healthcare offers this service. Phlebotomy became a medical science where a certificate is required to do the practice. Finding blood work near me makes it easier for people to access their services readily.
In addition to the blood draws, phlebotomists can use samples collected by the lab for research. Through the research, it can be suitable for transfusions, donations, and medical testing. In addition, the blood can carry possible diseases, and the phlebotomist can handle it with care.
It is also possible to get a therapeutic phlebotomy session. Doing so can decrease the amount of iron, especially for those suffering from hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and hemochromatosis.
While phlebotomists work at laboratories and hospitals, they are trained to work on venipuncture procedures. As a result, all procedures are safe and painless. Even before it starts, all equipment used is sterilized. Once the needle is used, it will be properly disposed of.
Conclusion
Phlebotomy would not be the same without the many discoveries. Yet, it became part of the healthcare we know today. So, by the next time you see a phlebotomist, you can thank them for the services they have done.
