01/29/2026
5 Things to Avoid During a Hard Freeze as a Mobile Phlebotomist
Avoid carrying specimens without insulation
Cold can hemolyze samples or mess with stability. Always use insulated bags with temperature control packs—your samples hate the cold more than you do.
Avoid rushing the draw
Cold causes vasoconstriction = disappearing veins. Take time to warm the patient’s hands/arms first instead of poking twice.
Avoid leaving supplies in the car overnight
Needles, tubes, reagents, and even alcohol pads can freeze and become unusable. Bring them inside—yes, all of them.
Avoid slippery footwear & unsafe parking
Ice + rushing = injury. Wear non-slip shoes and park smart. No blood draw is worth a fall.
Avoid ignoring weather alerts & travel conditions
If roads are unsafe, communicate early with patients and reschedule. Professional ≠ reckless.
💡 Bonus tip: Warm packs, extra gloves, and patience are your winter survival kit.
