r/BeAmazed • u/New_Libran • Jun 10 '25

Skill / Talent Chinese nurses use this technique called "flying needle" to draw blood

Blink and miss it!

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u/Background_Humor5838 Jun 10 '25

Ok but what is the purpose of this technique? Why not just place the needle normally? As a professional in the field, I'm genuinely curious. I've taken blood from patients a million times and even though this could be very accurate with practice, I'm confused about why it is better than just placing the needle because there will always be some risk of missing.

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u/Devil2960 Jun 10 '25

I could see it helping to prevent nerves. Just a sudden flick, and it's over with, instead of a slower insertion.

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u/Background_Humor5838 Jun 10 '25 edited Jun 11 '25

Regular insertion is not slow anyway. Even if it is slower than this, with proper technique, the patient won't feel anything. Edit: before you down vote me, please read this whole comment first and consider reading my other replies as well. I'm not saying it isn't painful for most people. IT ABSOLUTELY IS, but my point is that it SHOULDN'T be. A painless blood draw is possible and unfortunately most people have a negative experience. In a perfect circumstance, it can absolutely be completely painless but people are not perfect all the time and most commonly a slight pinch is felt.The medical community needs to continuously strive to do better, myself included. Edit again: Idk how to explain this any better. Your pain and experience is valid and real. I never said anything to the contrary.

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u/Devil2960 Jun 10 '25

I feel it. It's nothing terrible, but I feel it enough to see how it gives some the heebie-jeebies. :)

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u/Background_Humor5838 Jun 10 '25

It only stings if the technician doesn't let the alcohol dry completely or if they insert at a slightly off angle. In a perfect world, nobody would feel anything but not every stick can be a perfect stick. We are all human and it's very normal for some people to have a visceral reaction to the needle whether they feel anything or not. I've had my fair share of bad blood draws as a patient myself so I know the feeling of a needle going in in the worst way lol it's not a fun experience sometimes.