Vasovagal Syncope
Course Objectives
- Define vasovagal syncope and identify common triggers in healthcare settings
- Identify signs and symptoms of vasovagal episodes.
- Describe the proper response techniques to prevent injury during a syncope event.
- Outline practical strategies to prevent vasovagal reactions before they occur.
Course Content
Course Creator: Kris Fox, CPT1
Total CE Hours: 1 Credit Hour
Pace Course #: 586-2412-25
Course Description:
Vasovagal syncope is the most frequent cause of fainting in healthcare settings, particularly during blood draws and other minor procedures. Though generally harmless, it can be distressing and potentially hazardous if not anticipated and managed appropriately. This lesson explores how vasovagal syncope works, how to recognize it early, what to do when it happens, and how to prevent future episodes. Phlebotomists and healthcare personnel will gain practical knowledge to ensure patient safety, reduce complications, and enhance confidence during procedures.
References:
References:
- Eaton, E. K. (2022). A Fundamental Guide To Phlebotomy (1st ed.). NHCO-National Healthcare Organization.
- Vasovagal syncope. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vasovagal-syncope/symptoms-causes/syc-20350527
- What Is Vasovagal Syncope? The Manhattan Center for Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://manhattancbt.com/vasovagal-syncope
- Common triggers of vasovagal syncope and how to reduce your risk of fainting. Harvard Health. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/common-triggers-of-vasovagal-syncope-and-how-to-reduce-your-risk-of-fainting
- What To Know About Vasovagal Syncope, a Type of Fainting. Health. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.health.com/vasovagal-syncope-11702306
- Smelling Salts. Museum Of Dartmoor. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.dartmoorlife.org.uk/smelling-salts
- Mobile Phlebotomy Challenges. Needle Tube. Retrieved June 28, 2025, from https://www.needle.tube/blog/mobile-phlebotomy-challenges
- Prevent Fainting During Blood Draws: Patient & Phlebotomist Guide. Phlebotomy Now. Retrieved June 28, 2025, from https://www.phlebotomynow.co/prevent-fainting-during-blood-draws-patient-phlebotomist-guide
- Analysis of vasovagal syncope in the blood collection room in patients undergoing phlebotomy. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved June 28, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7578787
- Fear of needles and vasovagal reactions among phlebotomy patients. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved June 28, 2025, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16460906/
- Syncope: Epidemiology, etiology, and prognosis. Frontiers in Physiology. Retrieved June 28, 2025, from https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2014.00471/full
