Shiny and itchy skin from getting blood drawn? HIV?

Question

OK. I am terrified because what if the person who took my blood for a blood test at the doctor's office used an infected needle?

Right on the inner part of my arm, where they usually take blood from, is itchy at times and has a shiny look to the area and I think I got my blood taken about a week or 2 ago.

What is this from?

I also have a small bump where the needle went in.

Please help!

I saw her take something from the drawer and take a cap off...

I am scared

Answer 1

Haha wow. I thought I was bad, hun, you are not seeing the right therapist.
Also, you are fine.
If you are worried bout needles, why dont you get the Orasure test, its an oral thing that is just as accurate.

Answer 2

well thats all normal for a blood test (i get them done all the time). the itchyness could be from the needle but its NOT hiv. the red bump is from the needle and should go down in a day or two unless they really stabbed u then u may have a bruise (again NOT hiv). the thing she took from the drawer could have been a vail for the blood or a fresh and sanitized needle. there is no chance that they would use an infected needle as that could lead to law suit against them. watch them next time as they set up and ask them all kinds of questions if u neud to

Answer 3

Not a chance, you're freaking out for nothing.

When they draw blood, they use a new needle. The 'shiny' look might be a bit of a scar if it was a really large needle, or maybe you've been scratching at the scab. You definitely need to learn about HIV and stop freaking out.

Answer 4

We do not re-use needles,the cap that was taken off was from the "clean" needle she took from the drawer. Maybe you are itchy from the latex or bandage irritated your skin.

After being in the medical field for 15 years I am now latex sensitive. I think you are way overreacting...I am sure it is nothing.