Phosphate in Blood

Blood Phosphate (PO4), PO4 (Phosphate), Blood

Risks

Blood test

There is very little risk of complications from having blood drawn from a vein. You may develop a small bruise at the puncture site. You can reduce the risk of bruising by keeping pressure on the site for several minutes after the needle is withdrawn.

In rare cases, the vein may become inflamed after the blood sample is taken. This condition is called phlebitis and is usually treated by applying a warm compress several times daily.

Continued bleeding can be a problem for people with bleeding disorders. Aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and other blood-thinning medicines can also make bleeding more likely. If you have bleeding or clotting problems, or if you take blood-thinning medicine, tell the health professional before your blood is drawn.

Heel stick

There is very little risk of a serious problem developing from a heel stick. A small bruise may develop at the puncture site.

Continued bleeding can be a problem for babies with bleeding disorders. There is a possibility that a bleeding problem may be discovered while collecting the blood for this test.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: November 27, 2007
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
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