LAW 

ENFORCEMENT 

PHLEBOTOMY TOOLKIT: 

A Guide to Assist Law Enforcement 

Agencies With Planning and 

Implementing a Phlebotomy Program 

U.S Department of Transportatbn

National Highway Traffic Safety 

Administration ilNHTSA MMarch 2019 ARCH 2019
1

This publication is distributed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic 

Safety Administration, in the interest of information exchange. The opinions, findings and conclusions 

expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the Department of 

Transportation or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The United States Government 

assumes no liability for its content or use thereof. If trade or manufacturers’ names or products are 

mentioned, it is because they are considered essential to the object of the publication and should not be 

construed as an endorsement. The United States Government does not endorse products or manufacturers.
i

Acknowledgements 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) would like to thank the 

following people for their invaluable contributions to this toolkit:

• Beth Barnes, Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Traffic Safety Resource 

Prosecutor 

• Sergeant Frank Brown, Pierce County, Washington, Sheriff’s Department

• Sergeant Daven Byrd, Arizona Department of Public Safety

• Sergeant John Fraser, City of Lakewood, Washington, Police Department

• Trooper Michelle Hancock, Utah Highway Patrol

• Lieutenant Don Marose, Minnesota Highway Patrol 

• Technical Trooper Carson Nuss, Kansas Highway Patrol

• Jared Olson, Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association

• Chief Robert Ticer, Loveland, Colorado, Police Department
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Contents 

Acknowledgements.......................................................................................................................... i

Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 1

Understanding the Need for and Importance of a Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program.......... 1

The Need for a Warrant to Draw Blood...................................................................................... 2

Case Law................................................................................................................................. 2

Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program History........................................................................ 3

Importance and Benefits............................................................................................................. 3

Planning and Implementing a Phlebotomy Program ...................................................................... 5

Overview..................................................................................................................................... 5

Laws, Policies, and Procedures................................................................................................... 6

State Law ................................................................................................................................ 6

Agency Policies and Procedures............................................................................................. 7

Training....................................................................................................................................... 9

Addressing Liability Concerns ................................................................................................. 11

Case Law............................................................................................................................... 12

Immunity From Liability ...................................................................................................... 12

Qualification and/or Certification......................................................................................... 13

Location of Blood Draws...................................................................................................... 14

Barriers...................................................................................................................................... 14

Legislation............................................................................................................................. 14

Liability................................................................................................................................. 15

Bias That Law Enforcement Officers Cannot Safely Draw Blood....................................... 15

Public Perception .................................................................................................................. 15

Funding ................................................................................................................................. 16

Costs.......................................................................................................................................... 16

Tips for Implementing and Sustaining a Successful Law Enforcement 

Phlebotomy Program ................................................................................................................ 18

Benefits of a Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program ......................................................... 18

Stakeholders.......................................................................................................................... 18

Laws, Policies, and Procedures............................................................................................. 18

Training................................................................................................................................. 19

Costs/Funding ....................................................................................................................... 19

Program Management........................................................................................................... 19
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Frequently Asked Questions......................................................................................................... 20

Existing Program Examples...................................................................................................... 24

Arizona.................................................................................................................................. 25

Idaho ..................................................................................................................................... 26

Minnesota.............................................................................................................................. 26

Utah....................................................................................................................................... 27

Washington State .................................................................................................................. 27

Talking Points for Media, the Public, and Decision-Makers.................................................... 28

Links to More Information........................................................................................................ 29

Articles.................................................................................................................................. 29

Reports.................................................................................................................................. 29

Press Releases/Media............................................................................................................ 29

Videos................................................................................................................................... 30

Webinars............................................................................................................................... 30

Websites................................................................................................................................ 30

Sample Material............................................................................................................................ 31

References..................................................................................................................................... 32

Appendix A: Standards for Law Enforcement Phlebotomists.................................................... A-1

Appendix B: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Policy and Guidelines.......................................... B-1

Appendix C: Blood Draw Report ............................................................................................... C-1

Appendix D: Phlebotomy Log.................................................................................................... D-1

Appendix E: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Manual..................................................................E-1
1

Introduction 

Impaired driving continues to be a significant issue in 

the United States, with alcohol-related crashes 

contributing to 28 percent of overall driving fatalities

(NHTSA, 2017) and over 1.1 million people arrested for 

driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics(FBI 

2017) in 2014. All States have "implied consent” laws, 

which mean a licensed driver has consented to blood 

alcohol concentration (BAC) or drug testing when 

driving, by virtue of having a driver’s license. Despite 

this type of driver licensing law and resulting legal 

consequences, drivers may still refuse to provide a 

breath, blood, urine or saliva sample for breath alcohol 

concentration (BrAC) or drug testing. 

When a driver refuses to provide a bodily fluid sample, a law enforcement officer can obtain a 

warrant to draw blood for chemical testing. However, obtaining blood can be a time-intensive 

and costly process. A law enforcement phlebotomy program is a proven strategy to mitigate the 

time and cost issues associated with drawing blood from drivers suspected of driving while 

impaired (DWI) and therefore obtain the evidence necessary to prosecute impaired drivers. 

In the simplest terms, a law enforcement phlebotomy program allows law enforcement officers 

with specialized training to draw blood for investigative purposes. While a warrant is still 

required to draw blood in most cases, such a program eliminates the need for a suspect to be 

transported to a hospital or other facility to obtain a blood sample. To implement a law 

enforcement phlebotomy program, State statutes must allow for officers to draw blood (typically 

through terminology such as “qualified personnel can draw blood”), officers must complete 

specialized training, and a department must have protocols and procedures in place for drawing 

blood. 

This toolkit provides information and resources to aid State and local law enforcement agencies 

in the implementation of a law enforcement phlebotomy program. The information in this toolkit 

is compiled from existing, successful law enforcement phlebotomy programs. It should be noted 

that any agency starting a phlebotomy program should seek the advice of their legal counsel and 

gain leadership support prior to the development and implementation of the program.

Understanding the Need for and Importance of a Law 

Enforcement Phlebotomy Program 

Knowledge of the history behind the implementation of existing law enforcement phlebotomy 

programs and how these programs have benefitted those agencies is important information to 

share with stakeholders involved in implementing a program. Stakeholders include law 

enforcement agency management, traffic unit leadership, State attorneys general, county 

The terminology and acronyms 

used for driving under the 

influence of drugs or alcohol, 

driving while intoxicated, or 

driving while impaired vary 

across States. For simplicity, this 

toolkit uses the terms “impaired 

driving” and “driving while 

impaired” and the acronym 

“DWI” to refer to both drug and 

alcohol impairment.
2

prosecutors or district attorneys, traffic safety resource prosecutors, drug recognition experts,

State Highway Safety Offices, crime laboratories, State Departments of Health, educational 

institutions, medical labs, hospitals/medical clinics, community groups, and elected officials.

This section presents a background on the need for a warrant to draw blood, background 

information on how phlebotomy programs were established, and the importance and benefits of 

having such a program.

The following resources also provide useful background information about law enforcement 

phlebotomy programs:

• The Role of the Law Enforcement Phlebotomist (www.policechiefmagazine.org/the-roleof-the-law-enforcement-phlebotomist/) – This article, by Robert Ticer (former Lieutenant 

in the Arizona Department of Public Safety and current Chief of Police for Loveland, 

Colorado), describes the history of the Arizona Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program.

• Use of Warrants for Breath Test Refusals: Case Studies (www.nhtsa.gov/DOT/

NHTSA/Traffic%20Injury%20Control/Articles/Associated%20Files/810852.pdf) – This 

NHTSA report discusses the use of warrants for drawing blood in Arizona, Michigan, 

Oregon, and Utah. It also describes law enforcement phlebotomy programs that exist in 

some of these States.

• The Real Pros of a Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program 

(https://register.gotowebinar.com/RECORDING/2664786651188697859) – This is a 

recording of a webinar presentation by Jared Olson, Idaho Traffic Safety Resource 

Prosecutor. Registration is required to access the free webinar recording.

The Need for a Warrant to Draw Blood 

NHTSA research has found implied consent laws often have penalties inadequate to prevent 

impaired-driving suspects from refusing to take a breath test, and suspects who avoid testing are 

often able to avoid being held accountable. In some States, refusal to submit to BrAC testing 

leads to an administrative license suspension or revocation but no criminal charges. In 2011 (the 

most recent data available as of the writing of this toolkit), refusal rates were as high as 82

percent, with an average refusal rate of 24 percent (Namuswe, Coleman, & Berning, 2014).

A 2008 NHTSA report to Congress, Refusal of Intoxication Testing: A Report to Congress,

identified the use of search warrants as a promising 

strategy to reduce refusal rates (Berning et al., 2008).

When a warrant is obtained to draw blood, the suspect 

is then subject to the State’s administrative sanctions 

for refusal, as well as criminal sanctions if the results 

show they were driving while impaired.

Case Law 

Case law is important in understanding the 

circumstances that require a warrant to draw blood 

from a DWI suspect who refuses breath testing.

The first well-known case on compulsory blood tests was Schmerber v. California (1966), in 

which the United States Supreme Court ruled that the forced blood test at issue in the case did

not violate the Fourth Amendment. Based on the facts of the case, it was determined that a 

warrantless search was reasonable due to exigent circumstances in which the officer might 

U.S. Supreme Court Case Law 

References

• Schmerber v. California (1966)

• Missouri v. McNeely (2013)

• Birchfield v. North Dakota 

(2016)
3

reasonably have believed that a blood sample needed to be drawn quickly before the alcohol 

level in the suspect’s blood dissipated. 

However, in the 2013 Missouri v. McNeely ruling, the United States Supreme Court found that 

because a blood draw is a search under the Fourth Amendment, it typically requires a search 

warrant. The Court found the natural dissipation of alcohol in the bloodstream alone is not 

always an exigent circumstance that would allow for blood to be involuntarily drawn without a 

warrant and in this case, determined the warrantless involuntary blood draw to be

unconstitutional. The Court did not define what factors would establish exigency but left that 

issue open for a case-by-case analysis based on the “totality of the circumstances.” 

The most recent Supreme Court ruling regarding compulsory blood draws was in Birchfield v. 

North Dakota (2016). In this case, the Court held that law enforcement can conduct warrantless 

breath tests, but not warrantless blood tests (except under limited circumstances, such as if 

exigent circumstances exist), on suspected impaired drivers. The Court found while breath tests 

are non-intrusive and do not result in a biological sample left in the government’s possession, 

blood tests are significantly more intrusive and result in a sample that can be preserved and used 

to obtain information beyond BrAC results. 

Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program History 

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) is considered the founder of law enforcement 

phlebotomy, and many States have modeled their programs after the Arizona DPS program. The 

first law enforcement phlebotomy program began at Arizona DPS in 1995 to address concerns 

with the number of DWI investigations that resulted in no chemical evidence due to test refusals, 

the need for officers in rural areas to travel to obtain a blood draw on a DWI suspect, and the 

refusal or inability of hospital staff to obtain blood samples for law enforcement. 

Arizona DPS worked with the Arizona Attorney General’s office and other sources to determine 

if a law enforcement phlebotomy program would be feasible. 

A variety of sources were reviewed, including the Arizona law on blood and breath tests. This 

law states that blood may be drawn in DWI-related cases by a physician, registered nurse, or 

another qualified person. Arizona DPS viewed the definition of “another qualified person” as 

anyone who is trained to draw blood, and this was affirmed by the Attorney General’s office. 

While Arizona DPS officers initially took a semester-long phlebotomy class to become qualified 

to draw blood, in 1999, a 60-hour Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program (LEPP) course was 

developed through Phoenix College. This program focused primarily on drawing blood from 

adults in a clinical or outpatient setting. 

Three colleges in Arizona currently provide LEPP training. Due to the success of the program, 

many agencies in the Phoenix area now use blood testing as the only means for chemical testing. 

Law enforcement phlebotomists are also used in Arizona to draw blood for other criminal 

investigations, such as to obtain DNA samples. 

Arizona DPS has worked with agencies in other States to implement similar programs. The

Existing Program Examples section of this toolkit highlights some of those initiatives.

Importance and Benefits 

A law enforcement phlebotomy program has numerous benefits, but perhaps most importantly it 

allows for the collection of chemical testing evidence in a timely and efficient manner.
4

Chemical evidence is key to DWI cases and can mean the 

difference between a guilty plea or going to trial. However, 

obtaining and testing blood for alcohol and especially drug 

levels is time-sensitive, and evidence may be lost forever if 

the blood draw and testing process takes too long. 

While the warrant system is beneficial and legally 

necessary to obtaining blood evidence, it can add 

significant time to the DWI arrest process. For example, in 

some cases it can take 2 or more hours for an officer to 

complete the necessary forms, contact a judge, fax the 

forms, receive the warrant approval, transport the offender 

to the location of the blood draw, and wait for a 

phlebotomist to obtain the sample (Berning et al., 2007).

Furthermore, hospitals or private institutions may have the 

right to refuse to draw blood from a DWI suspect even if there is a warrant in place. These 

phlebotomists may be concerned about the suspect being uncooperative or violent, becoming a 

danger to staff and/or other patients. There may also be concerns regarding appearing in court as 

a witness. When officers are trained as phlebotomists, it eliminates the need for others to conduct 

the blood draw, thus reducing the time required to obtain the blood, the possibility of others 

refusing to draw blood, and the need for non-police phlebotomists to testify in court. 

Furthermore, it enables officers to return to service faster. 

A law enforcement phlebotomy program has many other potential benefits. The Real Pros of a 

Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program, a webinar presented by Jared Olson, Idaho Traffic 

Safety Resource Prosecutor

(https://register.gotowebinar.com/RECORDING/2664786651188697859), describes potential 

benefits which include the following, in addition to those described above.

• Cost savings. Eliminates the need to contract with a phlebotomist and pay hospital fees 

for drawing and testing blood, reduces administrative hearings and trials, and reduces 

overtime costs caused by officers having to wait at a hospital to have a suspect’s blood 

drawn. The cost for a contract phlebotomist can range from $40-$100 per blood draw, or 

even higher depending on location.

• Better and more complete evidence. Provides blood evidence in a timely manner, 

reducing the risk of decreased alcohol or other drug concentrations in the body and 

allowing law enforcement, prosecution, defendants, and the court system to make better 

decisions on how a case should move forward.

• Better witnesses and testimony. Law enforcement officers may make better witnesses in 

court as opposed to medical personnel who are not accustomed to testifying.

• Simplifies the chain of custody. The chain of custody is simplified when an officer 

draws blood and then secures it, rather than obtaining it from a civilian technician prior to 

booking.

• Blood evidence for cases other than DWI. Arizona DPS phlebotomists are also used for 

cases other than DWI, such as to assist local and county law enforcement with sexual 

assault, assault, and homicide cases when DNA evidence is needed. Having law 

enforcement phlebotomists also enables agencies to easily obtain all involved drivers’ 

blood in fatal crashes and obtain officers’ blood in critical incidents.

Some drug concentrations in the 

body decrease rapidly while 

impairing effects persist. For 

marijuana, THC concentrations 

fall to about 60 percent of their 

peak within 15 minutes after the 

end of smoking and to about 20

percent of their peak 30 minutes 

after the end of smoking while 

impairment lasts for 2 to 4 hours 

(Kelly-Baker, 2014; Logan,

2014).
5

Planning and Implementing a Phlebotomy Program 

Overview 

States that have successfully implemented law enforcement phlebotomy programs have found 

that there are nine key elements that must be considered prior to starting the program (Olson, 

2016):

1. The Law. Identify whether State law allows for law enforcement officers to be 

phlebotomists. Are there administrative rules? Case law? The law will dictate the 

minimum requirements necessary to establish a program. Refer to the Laws, Policies, 

and Procedures section of this toolkit for more information. 

2. The Stakeholders. Identify the stakeholders that should be involved in the planning and 

implementation of the program. They may include, but are not limited to, law 

enforcement agency management, traffic unit leadership, State attorneys general, county 

prosecutors or district attorneys, traffic safety resource prosecutors, drug recognition 

experts, State Highway Safety Offices, crime laboratories, Departments of Health, 

educational institutions, medical labs, hospitals/medical clinics, community groups, and 

elected officials.

3. The Training. Develop a partnership with the institution(s) that provide professional 

training for proper phlebotomy procedures. The key to success is developing a program 

that produces a qualified, professional phlebotomist who understands and follows the 

standards of care. The training institution should adhere to the Clinical and Laboratory 

Standards Institute (CLSI) defined scope of practice and standard of care. Refer to the 

Training section of this toolkit for more information. 

4. The Standards. Develop, adopt, and maintain statewide and department standards 

specific to law enforcement phlebotomy. This includes standards for equipment, blood 

draw locations, chain of custody, training and certification, and use of force. Refer to the 

Laws, Policies, and Procedures section of this toolkit for more information. 

5. The Liability. Liability is often the biggest hurdle to establishing a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program. Therefore, the law, training, and standards are critical. In short, 

liability should not be an issue when phlebotomists follow their training and standards. 

Refer to the Addressing Liability Concerns section of this toolkit for more information. 

6. The Hurdles. Develop a strategic plan to help clear other potential hurdles in creating 

and maintaining a quality program. This planning includes such topics as local 

government, media and community support. Refer to the Barriers section of this toolkit 

for more information. 

7. The Benefits. No quality program should continue unless the benefits outweigh the 

costs. The benefits of a law enforcement phlebotomy program must be understood by all 

those involved. Refer to the Importance and Benefits section of this toolkit for more 

information. 

8. The Costs and Funding Sources. Costs must also be understood by all involved. This 

includes costs for equipment and training. Funding sources may include State and 

Federal grants, realignment of agency budgets, and individual funding sources. Refer to 

the Costs section of this toolkit for more information. 

9. The Management of the Program. Identify a coordinator within each agency that 

implements a program and ideally a State coordinator. This person is responsible for 

monitoring procedures, documentation, and training to identify where changes may be 
6

needed and to mitigate potential problems. Refer to the Laws, Policies, and Procedures 

section of this toolkit for more information. 

Carefully considering these nine elements will help ensure the development of a program that 

can effectively stand up to legal challenges and ultimately help keep impaired drivers off the 

roads. 

The following sections discuss each of these elements in more detail. The Tips for Implementing 

and Sustaining a Successful Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program section summarizes the key 

points from each of these elements.

Laws, Policies, and Procedures 

The first step in planning for a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program is ensuring the State law allows 

officers to act as phlebotomists in their official capacity. 

For this reason, it is extremely important that an agency’s 

legal counsel and prosecutors are included in program 

development and implementation. If it is determined that 

State laws allow officers to draw blood, an agency may

then begin to develop, and ultimately implement, their own phlebotomy policy and procedures 

that will cover not only the safety of citizens, but also the safety of officers. An agency’s 

phlebotomy policy should include standards for things such as training, equipment, blood draw 

locations, blood draw protocols and procedures, chain of custody, documentation and reporting, 

and use of force.

State Law 

Examples of laws in States with existing law enforcement phlebotomy programs are shown 

below. As mentioned in the Liability section, the language used in these laws has been 

successfully used in trials to show that law enforcement officers can be legally qualified to draw 

blood. 

• Idaho Code § 18-8003. Persons Authorized to Withdraw Blood for the Purposes of 

Determining Content of Alcohol or Other Intoxicating Substances and Restitution 

Orders Section (1). 

(https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title18/t18ch80/sect18- 8003/): Only a 

licensed physician, qualified medical technologist, registered nurse, phlebotomist trained 

in a licensed hospital or educational institution or other medical personnel trained in a 

licensed hospital or educational institution to withdraw blood can, at the order or request 

of a peace officer, withdraw blood for the purpose of determining the content of alcohol, 

drugs or other intoxicating substances therein. This limitation shall not apply to the taking 

of a urine, saliva, or breath specimen. For purposes of this section: (a) the term "qualified 

medical technologist" shall be deemed to mean a person who meets the standards of a 

"clinical laboratory technologist" as set forth by the then current rules and regulations of 

the social security administration of the United States department of health and human 

services pursuant to subpart M of part 405, chapter III, title 20, of the code of federal 

regulation; and (b) the terms "phlebotomist" and "other medical personnel" shall be 

deemed to mean persons who meet the standards for the withdrawing of blood as 

designated and qualified by the employing medical facility or other employing entity of 

those persons.

Always consult your agency or 

department’s legal counsel 

before beginning to plan for a 

law enforcement phlebotomy

program.
7

• Minnesota Statute 169A.51. Subd. 7. Requirements for conducting tests; liability 

(www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=169a.51): Only a physician, medical technician, 

emergency medical technician-paramedic, registered nurse, medical technologist, medical 

laboratory technician, phlebotomist, laboratory assistant, or other qualified person acting 

at the request of a peace officer may withdraw blood for the purpose of determining the 

presence of alcohol, a controlled substance or its metabolite, or an intoxicating substance.

This limitation does not apply to the taking of a breath or urine sample.

• Utah Code 41-6a-523. Persons authorized to draw blood -- Immunity from liability. 

Section (1) (https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter6A/41-6a-S523.html?v=C41-6aS523_2017050920170509): Only the following, acting at the request of a peace officer, 

may draw blood to determine its alcohol or drug content: a physician; a registered nurse; 

a licensed practical nurse; a paramedic; as provided in Subsection (1)(b), emergency 

medical services personnel other than paramedics; or a person with a valid permit issued 

by the Department of Health under Section 26-1-30.

• Washington State Revised Code 46.61.506. Persons under influence of intoxicating 

liquor or drug—Evidence—Tests—Information concerning tests. Section (5)

(http://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.506): When a blood test is 

administered under the provisions of RCW 46.20.308, the withdrawal of blood for the 

purpose of determining its alcohol or drug content may be performed only by a physician 

licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW; an osteopathic physician licensed under 

chapter 18.57 RCW; a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or advanced registered 

nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW; a physician assistant licensed 

under chapter 18.71A RCW; an osteopathic physician assistant licensed under 

chapter 18.57A RCW; an advanced emergency medical technician or paramedic certified 

under chapter 18.71 RCW; or a medical assistant-certified or medical assistantphlebotomist certified under chapter 18.360 RCW, a person holding another credential 

under Title 18 RCW whose scope of practice includes performing venous blood draws, or 

a forensic phlebotomist certified under chapter 18.360 RCW. (Revised Code of 

Washington 18.360.010 defines a forensic phlebotomist as police officer, law 

enforcement officer, or employee of a correctional facility or detention facility, who is 

certified according to State code and meets any additional training and proficiency 

standards of his or her employer to collect a venous blood sample for forensic testing 

pursuant to a search warrant, a waiver of the warrant requirement, or exigent 

circumstances.)

Agency Policies and Procedures 

In addition to statewide laws and policies on phlebotomy, it 

is important that agencies develop, adopt, and maintain a 

policy with standards specific to the law enforcement 

phlebotomy program. The policy should include standards

for things such as training, certification or licensing (if 

required), equipment, blood draw locations, blood draw 

protocols and procedures, documentation and reporting, and 

use of force.

An agency should develop its law enforcement phlebotomy 

program policy and procedures in coordination with all stakeholders involved in the development 

All officers should be trained on 

and have access to the 

phlebotomy policy and 

procedures. The policy and 

procedures must be reviewed on 

a regular basis and updated as 

needed. 
8

of the program. This includes legal counsel, the State Department of Health, local hospitals, 

traffic safety resource prosecutors, educators, and others as necessary. 

A sample policy can be found in the Sample 

Material section. In general, a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program policy should include 

information about:

• purpose and scope of the policy;

• statement or reference to CLSI;

• State law as it applies to blood draws from 

DWI suspects;

• search warrant protocol;

• required qualifications, certifications, 

training, and 

requalification/recertification;

• necessary equipment;

• standard procedures, to include clinical 

procedures and equipment safety and 

disposal procedures;

• forced draw procedures, to include only 

using force that is reasonably necessary, 

given the nature of the offense, to conduct 

a blood draw;

• locations where blood can be drawn;

• required documentation;

• what to do in the event of exposure to 

bloodborne pathogens; and

• phlebotomy program coordinator responsibilities and contact information.

Documentation

Documentation will vary depending on 

what is required by a law enforcement 

agency’s policy and procedures. An 

agency may require a Phlebotomy Blood 

Draw Report with information such as: 

subject identification, criminal charge, 

whether or not the blood draw was 

consensual, case officer’s name and 

badge number, phlebotomist’s name and 

badge number, date and location of the 

blood draw, blood kit manufacturer and 

lot number, specialty equipment used, 

expiration date of the blood kit, where on 

the subject the blood was drawn, health 

and medical history of the subject, a 

narrative describing the blood draw (i.e., 

was the subject cooperative, did they 

have to be restrained), and a signature of 

the subject, the phlebotomist, and any 

witnesses.

Laws, Policies, and Procedures Key Points

The key points to keep in mind when developing policies and procedures for a law 

enforcement phlebotomy program include:

• Involve agency legal counsel and prosecutors in program development and 

implementation.

• Ensure that State law allows for officers to be qualified phlebotomists.

• Standards for things such as training, equipment, blood draw locations, blood draw 

protocols and procedures, documentation and reporting, and use of force.

• All officers should be trained on the phlebotomy policy and procedures.

• The policy and procedures should be stored in an easily accessible place.

• The policy and procedures must be reviewed and updated as needed on a regular 

basis. 
9

An agency’s phlebotomy program policy should be kept in an easily accessible location in both 

hard copy and electronically. All officers, even those who are not phlebotomists, should receive 

training on the policy so that they are aware of the rules and requirements when the need for a 

phlebotomist arises. The policy should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis, and all 

officers should be made aware when updates are made. 

Training 

The training for law enforcement phlebotomists varies by State. This section provides a highlevel overview of existing law enforcement phlebotomy training programs within the U.S. 

Before developing a law enforcement phlebotomy training program, be sure to check on what 

existing phlebotomy training programs are available in the State, identify the training 

requirements for phlebotomists, and hold discussions with colleges and other training providers 

to determine how a law enforcement program might be implemented in coordination with an 

existing phlebotomy training course.

Arizona’s law enforcement phlebotomy training program was the first of its kind in the United 

States, beginning in 1995. The program includes a phlebotomy course through Phoenix College 

that was developed specifically for law enforcement. The course includes online pre-class 

homework, 1 week of classroom training, and 20-30 hours in a clinical setting where officers 

must conduct 100 or more successful venipunctures. Officers must pass the final practical and 

written assessment. Following the completion of the phlebotomy training course, law 

enforcement officers are required to complete a phlebotomy refresher training class every 2 years 

(Arizona GOHS, 2018).

Many localities use Phoenix College’s curriculum as a model for their own curriculum. The 

textbook “Phlebotomy Essentials,” by Cathee Tankersley, is commonly used nationwide for law 

enforcement phlebotomy training. Additionally, many law enforcement phlebotomy training 

programs are conducted by colleges, universities or other educational entities (e.g., the Nampa 

Police Department training in Idaho is presented by the College of Western Idaho). Note that the 

law enforcement phlebotomy training is generally more condensed than non-law enforcement 

phlebotomist training, and the law enforcement training focuses only on the key skills, scope of 

practice, and standard of care necessary for law 

enforcement phlebotomists. 

Through phlebotomy training programs, law 

enforcement officers learn the appropriate 

procedures for drawing blood from the inner 

elbow, top of the hand, or top of the wrist. They 

also learn how to properly prepare, package, and 

send blood to the laboratory. Law enforcement 

phlebotomy training programs vary by State, but 

typically include: 

• Multiple days of training in both academic 

and clinical settings – a combination of 

online lessons and homework, classroom training, and hands-on practical application;

• mid-course and/or final examinations – practical and/or written; and

• a required number of successful blood draws.

Law enforcement phlebotomy 

programs vary by State, but 

typically include:

• multiple days of training in 

academic and clinical settings;

• mid-course and/or final

examinations; and

• a required number of successful 

blood draws.
10

For example, the 2017 law enforcement phlebotomy training program in Idaho was split into two 

phases with biennial refresher training. Both phases are summarized below (State of Idaho, 2017; 

Olson, 2016):

• Phase 1 – Academic training 

o 48 hours of pre-homework assignments

o Mid-course exam following pre-homework assignments 

o 3 days of classroom training

o 25+ successful blood draws in a classroom setting

o 80 percent minimum passing score on final exam 

o Examples of classroom training topics include: blood draw equipment, tourniquet 

tying, venipuncture procedure, blood, patient variables/pre-analytical 

considerations, and courtroom scenarios 

• Phase 2 – Clinical training

o 100+ successful blood draws in a laboratory setting 

• Requalification – Biennial 

o 8 hours of instruction in a classroom or clinical setting

o Written examination 

o Venipuncture proficiency tested 

Another example is the law enforcement phlebotomy training offered in Minnesota through the 

Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) in 2017. This training course included three phases 

with annual requalification, as described below (Minnesota, 2017; Marose, 2017): 

• Phase 1 – Online training 

o 8-hour online course 

o 3 weeks to complete before the second phase of training 

• Phase 2 – Classroom training

o 24 hours of training, including draws from live and inanimate subjects

o Examples of classroom training topics include: medical terminology, safety 

procedures, laboratory processing overview, blood collection procedures, 

anatomy, physiology, evidentiary requirements and duties, and trial preparation 

and tactics 

• Phase 3 – Clinical training

o Length of clinical training varies depending on training location 

o 50 successful blood draws in clinical setting

• Requalification – Annual (certification is not required in Minnesota) 

o Two or more successful blood draws, verified by licensed medical personnel 

o Attend requalification course 

o Submit log of all blood draws/reports 

Following the successful completion of a phlebotomy training program, law enforcement officers 

are typically “qualified” to be phlebotomists. However, some States do require that 

phlebotomists be certified or licensed to legally draw blood. It is important to research specific 
11

State requirements to ensure that all necessary qualifications, licensing, or certifications are met 

when serving as a law enforcement phlebotomist. 

Addressing Liability Concerns 

Liability concerns are perhaps one reason States and agencies are hesitant to implement a law 

enforcement phlebotomy program. However, States with existing programs have taken measures 

to protect their agencies and law enforcement officers from liability and have been successful in 

doing so. These States and agencies have found that liability concerns do not have to be a barrier 

to implementing a program. Most liability concerns can be overcome by:

• ensuring State law includes language that covers law enforcement officers as qualified 

phlebotomists. See the Laws, Policies, and Procedures section for more information;

• developing and following phlebotomy policy and procedures. See the Laws, Policies, and 

Procedures section for more information;

• establishing training protocols and a quality training curriculum and continuing 

education/requalification/recertification requirements. See the Training section for more 

information;

• being transparent to the media and the public in terms of educating them about the 

phlebotomy program, letting them see training material and course information, and even 

demonstrating blood draws; and

• learning from existing successful programs. See the Existing Program Examples section 

for more information.

Training Key Points

The key points to keep in mind when developing and implementing law enforcement 

phlebotomy training include:

• Research the phlebotomist training and qualification or certification requirements in 

your State.

• Research existing phlebotomist training programs in your State to understand what is 

available.

• Review existing law enforcement phlebotomist training programs to understand the 

requirements and how they differ from traditional phlebotomist training. Two 

examples include:

o Phoenix College - www.phoenixcollege.edu/programs/phlebotomy/lawenforcement-program

o Dakota County Technical College -

dps.mn.gov/divisions/msp/about/Documents/Training%20Announcement%20

August%202017.pdf

• Meet with universities and other training providers that offer phlebotomist training to 

discuss how law enforcement phlebotomy training might be incorporated into their 

program. 
12

Case Law 

To date, there have been very few legal cases involving law enforcement phlebotomy programs. 

In the few cases, the judges have ultimately ruled in favor of the law enforcement phlebotomist. 

The cases have focused on the qualifications of the officer to draw blood, indicating the 

importance of ensuring that State law includes language covering specially trained law 

enforcement officers as qualified to draw blood. It also indicates the importance of having a 

well-documented phlebotomy program, to include sufficient training and written policy and 

guidelines. 

Since 1995, Arizona has conducted tens of thousands of officer blood draws with no apparent 

successful civil litigation. There have been two civil lawsuits brought against individual 

departments. In both cases, the lawsuits were dismissed without merit. There have also been two 

cases in Arizona regarding the legality of officer phlebotomists. In both, the court determined

that a law enforcement phlebotomist is qualified through training and experience. One of these 

cases was the State of Arizona v. May (2005). The defense argued that the procedure used to 

obtain blood from a driver suspected of DWI was not performed in a reasonable manner because 

it was done while standing at the rear of a police car and thus violated his Fourth Amendment 

right against unreasonable search and seizure. The defense also claimed that the law enforcement 

officer who drew the blood was not a “trained phlebotomist.” The court found the blood draw 

was reasonable due to only a “slightly higher” risk of complications in a field setting as opposed 

to a clinical setting. The court also found that the officer was considered a “qualified person” to 

draw blood under Arizona statute. 

Immunity From Liability 

The best way for law enforcement phlebotomists to mitigate liability risk is to follow proper 

procedures learned in their training and remain within the defined standard of care and scope of 

practice defined by CLSI. If a law enforcement phlebotomist is staying within the medical 

community's standard of care, the law enforcement phlebotomist should be safe from liability. 

Even so, it is recommended that immunity provisions be included in State law to cover law 

enforcement phlebotomists, or that law enforcement agencies ensure immunity is included as 

part of their employment as a law enforcement officer. Examples of State law specific to the 

liability of law enforcement phlebotomists include:

• Idaho Code 18-8002. Tests of Driver for Alcohol Concentration, Presence of Drugs or 

Other Intoxicating Substances — Penalty and Suspension Upon Refusal of Tests. 

Subsection (6) (https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title18/t18ch80/ sect18-

8002/): No hospital, hospital officer, agent, or employee, or health care professional 

licensed by the State of Idaho, whether or not such person has privileges to practice in the 

hospital in which a body fluid sample is obtained or an evidentiary test is made, shall 

incur any civil or criminal liability for any act arising out of administering an evidentiary 

test for alcohol concentration or for the presence of drugs or other intoxicating substances 

at the request or order of a peace officer in the manner described in this section and 

section 18-8002A, Idaho Code; provided that nothing in this section shall relieve any 

such person or legal entity from civil liability arising from the failure to exercise the 

community standard of care. This immunity extends to any person who assists any 

individual to withdraw a blood sample for evidentiary testing at the request or order of a 

peace officer, which individual is authorized to withdraw a blood sample under the 
13

provisions of section 18-8003, Idaho Code, regardless of the location where the blood 

sample is actually withdrawn.

• Minnesota Statute 169A.51. Subd. 7(c).Requirements for conducting tests; liability 

(www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=169a.51): The physician, medical technician, 

emergency medical technician-paramedic, medical technologist, medical laboratory 

technician, laboratory assistant, phlebotomist, registered nurse, or other qualified person 

drawing blood at the request of a peace officer for the purpose of determining the 

concentration of alcohol, a controlled substance or its metabolite, or a hazardous 

substance is in no manner liable in any civil or criminal action except for negligence in 

drawing the blood.

• Utah Code 41-6a-523. Persons authorized to draw blood -- Immunity from liability. 

Subsection (2) (le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter6A/41-6a-S523.html?v=C41-6aS523_2017050920170509): The following are immune from civil or criminal liability 

arising from drawing a blood sample from a person whom a peace officer has reason to 

believe is driving in violation of this chapter, if the sample is drawn in accordance with 

standard medical practice: (a) a person authorized to draw blood under Subsection (1)(a); 

and (b) if the blood is drawn at a hospital or other medical facility, the medical facility. 

• Washington State Revised Code 46.61.508. Liability of medical personnel withdrawing 

blood (app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.508): No physician licensed under 

chapter 18.71 RCW; osteopathic physician licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW; registered 

nurse, licensed practical nurse, or advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under 

chapter 18.79 RCW; physician assistant licensed under chapter 18.71A RCW; 

osteopathic physician assistant licensed under chapter 18.57A RCW; advanced 

emergency medical technician or paramedic certified under chapter 18.71 RCW; or 

medical assistant-certified or medical assistant-phlebotomist certified under 

chapter 18.360 RCW, person holding another credential under Title 18 RCW whose 

scope of practice includes performing venous blood draws, or forensic phlebotomist 

certified under chapter 18.360 RCW, or hospital, or duly licensed clinical laboratory 

employing or utilizing services of such licensed or certified health care provider, shall 

incur any civil or criminal liability as a result of the act of withdrawing blood from any 

person when directed by a law enforcement officer to do so for the purpose of a blood 

test under the provisions of a search warrant, a waiver of the search warrant requirement, 

exigent circumstances, or any other authority of law: PROVIDED, That nothing in this 

section shall relieve such licensed or certified health care provider, hospital or duly 

licensed clinical laboratory, or forensic phlebotomist from civil liability arising from the 

use of improper procedures or failing to exercise the required standard of care.

 

Qualification and/or Certification 

Quality and adequacy of training are also common concerns in implementing a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program. States and agencies may fear blood draws conducted by law enforcement 

phlebotomists will not hold up in court because the court may consider the officer to not be 

properly trained or qualified to draw blood. However, as shown in the cases highlighted in the 

previous section and in the training programs described in the Training section, this is a concern 

that is easy to overcome.
14

Before beginning a law enforcement phlebotomy program, it is important to review and 

understand State phlebotomy requirements. Rules vary among States, and not all States require 

phlebotomists to be licensed or certified. There are no Federal requirements for phlebotomy 

licensure or certification. In most cases, it is the classroom and clinical training that makes both 

officers and medical professionals “qualified” to draw blood. 

Location of Blood Draws 

The location of blood draws conducted by law 

enforcement is also a common concern. Visuals come to 

mind of officers drawing blood on the unsanitary roadside 

or on the hood of their vehicle. In reality, that is not the 

case. Law enforcement phlebotomists should follow very 

specific policies and procedures for conducting safe blood draws. Agency policies and 

procedures should either include or reference CLSI and Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (OSHA) standards and guidelines. Policies and procedures also should require 

documentation of where the blood draw took place.

Arizona has DWI vans that are equipped with a phlebotomy chair, telephone, and electronic 

warrant system. Some agencies have a phlebotomy room within the law enforcement station, 

containing all the necessary equipment, including a phlebotomy chair. The room may also be 

used for other purposes (e.g., file storage, fingerprinting), but it provides a safe place to draw 

blood. Agencies may allow draws in a non-controlled environment if the procedures used meet 

CLSI guidelines and agency policy. 

Barriers 

The previous sections have provided an overview of the elements necessary to implement a law 

enforcement phlebotomy program. This section summarizes potential barriers and provides a 

summary of how some States have overcome each barrier. 

Legislation 

Lack of legislation allowing law enforcement officers to legally draw blood is the primary barrier 

to implementing a law enforcement phlebotomy program. Those States that have law 

enforcement phlebotomy programs in place have legislation that allows for anyone who is 

“qualified” to draw blood for drug and alcohol testing.

Conducting a blood draw 

requires a clean setting, but it 

does not require a sterile setting.

Liability Key Points

The key points to keep in mind when addressing liability concerns include the following.

• Ensure State law and agency regulations cover liability and immunity.

• All officer phlebotomists need to stay within their training, as well as the defined 

standard of care and scope of practice as defined by CLSI.

• Conducting a blood draw requires a clean setting, but it does not require a sterile 

setting.

States with existing programs have taken measures to protect their agencies and law 

enforcement officers from liability and have been successful in doing so.
15

Liability 

Liability concerns are a common barrier to implementing a law enforcement phlebotomy 

program. As discussed in the Addressing Liability Concerns section, liability issues can be 

resolved by: 

• ensuring State law includes language that covers law enforcement officers as qualified 

phlebotomists;

• maintaining compliance with CLSI guidelines for training and venipunctures;

• developing and following phlebotomy policy and procedures, including specific 

procedures regarding the use of force to explain how/when to use force and to ensure that 

officers only use force that is reasonably necessary;

• establishing training protocols and a quality training curriculum and continuing 

education/requalification/recertification. Ensure that trained law enforcement use their 

phlebotomy skills on a regular basis;

• being transparent to the media and the public in terms of educating them about the 

phlebotomy program, letting them see training material and course information, and even 

demonstrating blood draws; and

• learning from existing successful programs.

Bias That Law Enforcement Officers Cannot Safely Draw Blood 

Some believe law enforcement officers cannot draw blood as safely or as effectively as 

healthcare providers. However, law enforcement officers can receive training that is more than 

sufficient to safely and effectively draw blood.

Other concerns include the belief that law enforcement phlebotomists do not have appropriate 

locations to draw blood, or the ability to properly handle and store blood.

These concerns can be reduced by ensuring law enforcement phlebotomists have access to 

appropriate and safe locations for drawing blood and that all law enforcement phlebotomy 

programs have clearly defined and comprehensive policies and guidelines. Policies and 

guidelines should include training, use of force, safety procedures, and meet CLSI guidelines in 

both training and law enforcement venipunctures and OSHA standards regarding handling and 

storing blood and cleaning after blood draws. The goal is to not only protect those who are 

having their blood drawn, but also to protect the officers from injury or being exposed to 

bloodborne pathogens during blood draws.

Public Perception 

Public perception of law enforcement officers drawing blood can also hinder the ability to 

implement a law enforcement phlebotomy program. This barrier is similar to the barrier 

regarding bias that officers cannot safely draw blood; the public will likely have thoughts of 

officers drawing blood in unsanitary conditions, without proper equipment or procedures in 

place. It is important that States and agencies looking to implement a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program work with the media and conduct public outreach to allow the public to 

develop a comfort level with the program. 

The Nampa, Idaho, Police Department issued a press release to notify the media and public about 

their program. The press release included information on training, how the program was modeled 

after Arizona’s long-standing program, and the benefits of the program. The press release also 

invited members of the media to attend a presentation where they could observe the law 

enforcement phlebotomy class in action and witness officers performing blood draws. During 
16

this presentation, the media had the opportunity to photograph an officer drawing blood and talk 

to officers involved in the program. The Department also offered the media the opportunity to set 

up interviews with phlebotomy instructors and the Department Phlebotomy Coordinator. 

Examples of press related to the Nampa program include:

• Idaho Press-Tribune: Police Support Blood Draws (www.idahopress.com/news/policesupport-blood-draws/article_795f6b85-75f3-5086-8dd2-883664655764.html)

• Idaho-Press Tribune: Nampa PD Blood-Draw Program Promising 

(www.idahopress.com/editorials/nampa-pd-blood-draw-programpromising/article_23c66463-40d8-500c-8921-4f0d1052277e.html)

• Idaho Press-Tribune: Meet Nampa’s Phlebotocops (www.idahopress.com/members/meetnampa-s-phlebotocops/article_f503d41a-55b9-11e4-9b65-6381d9f37899.html)

Funding 

Another barrier that can hinder the implementation of law enforcement phlebotomy programs is 

funding. However, funding sources (e.g., grants) are available to reduce the program costs to law 

enforcement agencies. For example, in Minnesota, all program costs are absorbed by a grant 

through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety. Additionally, 

Arizona receives funding for law enforcement training from the Governor’s Office of Highway 

Safety. 

Costs 

Law enforcement phlebotomy program costs depend on numerous factors and may fluctuate over 

time. This section discusses examples of potential costs, but it is important to understand the 

costs specific to each individual State or agency prior to implementing a program. 

The following table provides a representative range of potential costs based on existing law 

enforcement phlebotomy programs (Arizona GOHS, 2016; Idaho, 2017; Berning, Beirness, 

Hedlund, & Jones, 2007; Utah, 2017; Hedlund, 2017). Actual costs will vary depending on the 

factors described after Table 1.

Overcoming Barriers: Key Points

The key points to keep in mind to overcome barriers to setting up a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program include:

• Bias: Policies and procedures, documentation, training, and being transparent with the 

general public and media all help overcome the bias that law enforcement officers 

cannot safely draw blood.

• Public Perception: Work closely with the media to provide facts about the program to 

educate the public and increase acceptance of the program.

• Funding: Look for available grants and other funding sources to help cover program 

costs.
17

 Table 1. Potential Phlebotomy Program Costs

Program Element Cost Range

Initial Training (per student) $200 – $600

Requalification/recertification 

training

$70 – $150

Venipuncture equipment (per year) $1,000 – $1,500

Blood sample analysis (per sample) No cost – $300

Factors affecting the costs associated with law enforcement phlebotomy programs include:

• training source (e.g., college, university, law enforcement organization);

• location of the program (e.g., ranges from $310/student to $600/student) (Berning, 

Beirness, Hedlund, & Jones, 2007);

• available funding sources (e.g., a grant from the Minnesota Department of Public 

Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety absorbs all law enforcement phlebotomy program costs 

in Minnesota, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety provides funding for law 

enforcement training in Arizona) (GOHS, 2016);

• equipment used (e.g., a mobile laboratory or a phlebotomy room set up in the station) and 

the cost of replacing equipment over time;

• blood sample analysis laboratory fees (may be provided at no cost by a State or regional 

crime lab); and

• salary increases for qualified law enforcement officer phlebotomists. An agency must 

determine if it plans to provide a pay differential for officers who are qualified 

phlebotomists. 

When planning for a law enforcement phlebotomy program, it is important to identify and 

understand all costs that will be involved and clearly articulate to decision-makers how the 

benefits will outweigh the costs. Also understand the costs of not having a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program. For example, the Utah Highway Patrol completed a cost comparison 

between using vendors or trooper phlebotomists and determined they saved nearly $30,000 in the 

Costs Key Points

The key points to keep in mind when identifying costs for implementing a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program:

• Costs will vary by State or agency depending on location, training requirements, 

equipment, and lab fees.

• Costs to the agency may be defrayed by grants. It is important to research the 

potential for funding grants from the Governor’s Highway Safety Office or other 

agencies/organizations.

• Agencies must determine if they intend to provide pay increases or other benefits to 

officers who are qualified phlebotomists. 

• Agencies must be able to demonstrate how the benefits outweigh the costs. 
18

first year of their law enforcement phlebotomy program. The cost of using a contract 

phlebotomist can range from $40-$100 per blood draw, or even higher depending on the location 

and agency needs. Additional costs include hospital fees and time for the contract phlebotomist 

to appear in court as a witness. In addition, agencies should consider lost productivity costs from 

law enforcement having to transport a suspect and wait at the hospital for a blood draw.

Tips for Implementing and Sustaining a Successful Law Enforcement Phlebotomy 

Program 

Benefits of a Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program 

• Allows for the collection of chemical testing evidence in a timely and efficient manner

• Allows blood evidence to be collected before drug concentrations in the body decrease

• Cost savings

• Simplifies chain of custody

• Law enforcement phlebotomists may provide better testimony in court than private 

phlebotomists

• Allows officers to more quickly remove unsafe drivers from the roads

• Results in saved lives and safer communities

Stakeholders 

• Involve the department’s legal counsel, traffic safety resource prosecutors, and local 

prosecutors in program development and implementation.

• Work with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and other organizations or 

advocacy groups to garner support for the program.

• Generate media to raise awareness of the program. Hold a press conference to introduce 

the program and host an open house for reporters and provide demonstrations of officers 

drawing blood.

Laws, Policies, and Procedures 

• Ensure State law includes the appropriate “who” and “where” that enable law 

enforcement officers to draw blood, (e.g., who is legally allowed to draw blood and 

where can it be drawn).

• Develop phlebotomy protocols, policies, and procedures that have guidance and/or 

requirements for:

o obtaining a search warrant;

o use of force;

o training;

o clinical procedures;

o chain of custody;

o officer and suspect safety; and 

o documentation.

• Determine where and how blood draws will take place. This may be in a room in a station 

or the jail/detention facility, in a mobile processing van, or even the roadside if the proper 

procedures regarding sanitation are in place and used.

• Consider the use of audio and video recording in the designated room to protect the 

integrity of the evidence.
19

• Document all blood draws.

• Adopt a system to allow law enforcement to obtain a warrant quickly. 

Training 

• Ensure quality training from a reputable phlebotomy training program. 

• Review existing law enforcement phlebotomist courses to develop the agency’s or State’s 

training program.

• Work with colleges that provide phlebotomy training to design a course specifically for 

law enforcement.

• Select colleges or training providers that teach CLSI standards, scope of practice, and 

standard of care.

• Be aware of the State’s requirements regarding qualification/certification and 

requalification/recertification, as well as licensing requirements.

Costs/Funding 

• Understand all costs involved with implementing a program and be prepared to 

demonstrate how the benefits outweigh the costs.

• Work with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and other organizations to obtain 

grants or determine additional funding sources.

• Understand that costs may change over time, as training costs rise or equipment costs 

increase.

• Take into consideration that aging equipment will need to be replaced or upgraded.

• Determine if law enforcement phlebotomists will receive additional pay for their role.

Program Management 

• Identify a law enforcement phlebotomy program coordinator within each agency and 

ideally also within the State. 

• The program coordinator(s) should be responsible for monitoring procedures, 

documentation, and training to identify where changes may be needed and to mitigate any 

potential cause for concern before it turns into a bigger issue.

• Meet with program managers of existing programs to understand their successes and 

challenges.
20

Frequently Asked Questions 

Benefits

What are the benefits of a law enforcement phlebotomy program?

The following are the primary benefits of a law enforcement phlebotomy program.

• Allows for the collection of chemical testing evidence in a timely and efficient manner, 

which can be provided to the court, removing impaired drivers from the roads, and 

resulting in saved lives and safer communities.

• Eliminates the need for civilian technicians to conduct the blood draw, thus reducing 

the costs involved in obtaining blood, the time required to obtain the blood, the 

possibility of others refusing to draw blood, and the need for non-police phlebotomists 

to testify in court. 

• Enables officers to return to service faster. 

• Simplifies the chain of custody. The officer draws the blood and then secures it and 

submits it for testing, rather than having to first obtain the evidence from a civilian 

technician. 

• Blood evidence can be used for cases other than DWI, such as sexual assault, assault, 

and homicide cases when DNA evidence is needed. Having law enforcement 

phlebotomists also enables agencies to easily obtain all involved drivers’ blood in fatal 

crashes and obtain officers’ blood in critical incidents.

Additional information can be found in the Importance and Benefits section of this toolkit.

Legislation

What is the first step a State or agency should take when interested in starting a law 

enforcement phlebotomy program?

The first step when starting a law enforcement phlebotomy program is to ensure that State law 

allows law enforcement officers to become qualified/certified phlebotomists. An agency’s 

legal counsel should be included early in the program development phase. 

Additional information can be found in the Laws, Policies, and Procedures section of this

toolkit. 

What are the steps to ensure proper legislation is in place to allow law enforcement 

officers to draw blood? 

Existing legislation permitting certain entities to become qualified/certified phlebotomists 

varies by State. As such, the first step is to consult the appropriate legal counsel, and 

determine the specific language within existing State law regarding phlebotomists. The Laws, 

Policies, and Procedures section has examples of existing legislation. 

If current State legislation allows for law enforcement officers serving as phlebotomists, then 

the agency should focus on creating comprehensive agency policies and procedures for their 

law enforcement phlebotomy program, in consultation with legal counsel, the Department of 

Health, local hospitals, traffic safety resource prosecutors, educators, and others as necessary. 
21

This issue and other barriers are discussed in further detail in the Barriers section of this

toolkit. 

Training

What training is required, both initial training and continuing education? 

The law enforcement phlebotomy training requirements vary by State. However, training 

programs typically contain multiple phases over multiple days. Phases may include 

classroom/online training and clinical training. In addition, recertification/requalification 

training is typically required every year or two. As part of the classroom/online and clinical 

training sessions, mid-course and/or final examinations are required along with a certain 

number of successful blood draws. 

Additional details regarding existing training programs are included within the Training 

section of this toolkit. 

Is the term “qualified” or “certified” used when referring to a law enforcement 

phlebotomist?

Most State training programs qualify law enforcement officers to serve as phlebotomists; 

however, some States require law enforcement officers to become a certified phlebotomist 

before they can draw blood.

Liability

Have existing programs encountered any legal or liability trouble?

As of yet, there have not been many legal cases concerning existing law enforcement 

phlebotomy programs. Of the cases that have occurred, the final rulings were ultimately in 

favor of the law enforcement phlebotomists. These legal cases have emphasized the

importance of ensuring that appropriate State legislation is in place allowing law enforcement 

officers to become qualified or certified phlebotomists and that all policies and procedures 

regarding the law enforcement phlebotomy programs are recorded and strictly followed. 

Specific examples of legal cases involving existing law enforcement phlebotomy programs are 

described within the Case Law section of this toolkit. 

How do you address concerns that blood draw locations are not as sanitary as a hospital

or a doctor’s office?

According to OSHA standards, a blood draw requires a clean setting, not a sterile setting, as 

often required in hospital or doctor’s office settings. Cleanliness standards for blood draws 

within phlebotomy rooms and mobile phlebotomy labs should be fully outlined within the law 

enforcement phlebotomy program policies, in accordance with OSHA guidelines, to protect 

blood draw recipients and the law enforcement phlebotomists conducting the blood draws.

These details are further discussed within the Bias That Law Enforcement Officers Cannot 

Safely Draw Blood section of this toolkit. 
22

What are the differences between consensual draws and draws made under a warrant?

Consensual blood draws occur when the suspect provides permission for his or her blood to be 

drawn when suspected of DWI; however, drivers may refuse to provide a blood sample for 

BAC or drug testing. When consent is not provided, law enforcement agencies generally must 

obtain a search warrant for drawing the suspect’s blood, which exposes the suspect to potential 

refusal and criminal sanctions. All States have “implied consent” laws, which mean that all 

licensed drivers have indirectly consented to BAC or drug testing by virtue of holding a 

license and/or driving. However, a 2016 Supreme Court decision in Birchfield v. North Dakota 

ruled that a search warrant still must be obtained to draw blood.

Refer to the Need for a Warrant to Draw Blood section of this toolkit for more details. 

Do law enforcement phlebotomists require medical malpractice insurance?

The level of liability that law enforcement phlebotomists hold is dependent on the specific 

language within the State legislature. For example, in Utah, a bill was passed in 2012 that 

provided immunity to qualified technicians (i.e., law enforcement phlebotomists) from liability 

to civil or criminal lawsuits. When implementing a new law enforcement phlebotomy 

program, it is essential that agencies coordinate with their insurance provider and legal counsel 

to ensure that State law exempts law enforcement phlebotomists from liability, as long as they 

are properly trained/certified and have followed all outlined policies and procedures. 

More information regarding liability concerns associated with a law enforcement phlebotomy 

program can be found within the Addressing Liability Concerns section of this toolkit. 

Costs

What are the associated costs?

Costs associated with implementing a law enforcement phlebotomy program vary greatly 

depending on numerous factors, including the training source, the State delivering the training, 

available funding sources, equipment used, blood sample analysis laboratory fees, and if 

qualified law enforcement officer phlebotomists receive pay differential. When attempting to 

establish a law enforcement phlebotomy program, it is extremely important to compare the 

benefits versus the costs and be able to present that information to stakeholders and potential 

financial supporters. 

Although there are costs associated with implementing a law enforcement phlebotomy 

program, it is important to understand the costs of not having a program. The Utah Highway 

Patrol completed a cost comparison between using contract phlebotomists or trooper 

phlebotomists and determined they saved nearly $30,000 in the first year of their law 

enforcement phlebotomy program. The cost of using a contract phlebotomist can range from 

$40-$100 per blood draw, or even higher depending on the location and agency needs. 

Additional costs include hospital fees and time for the contract phlebotomist to appear in court 

as a witness. In addition, agencies should consider lost productivity costs from law 

enforcement having to transport a suspect and wait at the hospital for a blood draw.

The Costs section of the toolkit provides more detailed information, including an example 

range of potential costs and factors affecting program costs. 
23

How do agencies typically obtain funding for a phlebotomy program?

Funding can be obtained through grants, the State, and/or individual department funding. For 

example, in Minnesota, all law enforcement phlebotomy program costs are covered by the 

Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety. In Arizona, the Governor’s 

Office of Highway Safety financially supports the law enforcement phlebotomy training 

program. 

Processes and Procedures

What locations are typically used to perform blood draws?

Locations for performing blood draws vary by law enforcement agency; however, all law 

enforcement phlebotomy programs outline specific guidelines, typically following OSHA 

standards, requiring that all blood draws be conducted in a controlled setting and on a stable 

surface (i.e., not on the trunk of a car or in the back seat of a car). Some agencies use fully 

dedicated or semi-dedicated phlebotomy rooms within their law enforcement stations to safely 

draw blood. In Arizona, law enforcement phlebotomists use a mobile lab. 

Additional details are located within the Location of Blood Draws section of this toolkit. 

What happens after a blood sample is obtained?

It is important that law enforcement agencies develop, adopt, and maintain a policy and 

standards specific to the law enforcement phlebotomy program. The policy should include 

standards for important details such as training, equipment, blood draw locations, blood draw 

protocols and procedures, documentation and reporting, and use of force. The policy and 

procedures should include information about chain of custody that describes what happens 

after a blood sample is obtained. This may include a requirement for blood tubes to be kept in 

the phlebotomist’s possession until they are labeled and sealed into a blood kit and mailed to 

the appropriate laboratory. It may also include requirements for refrigeration or for a 

maximum timeframe the blood may be held until it is sent for testing. 

More information can be found within the Agency Policies and Procedures section and the 

Sample Material section of this toolkit.

What type of documentation is required for each blood draw? 

The documentation will vary depending on what is required by a law enforcement agency’s 

policy and procedures. An agency may require a Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report with 

information such as: subject identification, criminal charge, whether or not the blood draw was 

consensual, case officer’s name and badge number, phlebotomist’s name and badge number, 

date and location of the blood draw, blood kit manufacturer and lot number, specialty 

equipment used, expiration date of the blood kit, where on the subject the blood was drawn, 

health and medical history of the subject, a narrative describing the blood draw (i.e., was the 

subject cooperative, did they have to be restrained), and a signature of the subject, the 

phlebotomist, and any witnesses. 

Is the process different for drawing blood from a juvenile versus an adult? 

The process can be different dependent on the law enforcement’s agency/department-specific 

policy. For example, some agencies/departments require a warrant for juveniles even if the 
24

draw is consensual. The process can also differ by agency for supervisor notifications, duty log 

entry, etc. The actual venipuncture procedure itself does not vary for juveniles.

Are there any instances where a law enforcement phlebotomist would not draw blood 

(e.g., an extremely impaired driver that may require medical attention, or someone who 

states they have a medical issue that prevents their blood from being drawn)?

Yes. If the subject has medical complications or conditions specific to one side of the body 

(e.g., a mastectomy), the phlebotomist should not be allowed to draw from that side of the 

body due to increased risk of infection and complication. For more severe complications or 

conditions, the phlebotomist should only draw with physician approval. If the person is so 

impaired as to create medical risk, then medical treatment takes priority over the draw. Blood 

will also not be drawn if the subject has no available site (no vein can be located, severe injury 

preventing the draw, extreme burns that cover the blood draw area, a medical condition that 

prevents their blood from being drawn, etc.).

How many phlebotomists are needed in a law enforcement agency/department to make 

the program beneficial? 

This will vary depending on the law enforcement agency/department size, geographic region 

covered by the agency/department, available funding, and agency/department needs. Ideally, 

an agency should have a phlebotomist available 24/7, whether that is one phlebotomist per 

shift or by having someone on call as needed. Some agencies/departments that have only one 

phlebotomist typically schedule that person to work on high DWI arrest shifts, periods, or 

weekends. Other agencies may establish a callout list that is available to staff and dispatch so 

they are aware of who can be called when a phlebotomist is needed. 

Do law enforcement phlebotomists typically receive additional compensation or benefits 

for being a qualified phlebotomist? 

This will vary by law enforcement agency and funding availability. In some 

agencies/departments law enforcement phlebotomists do not receive any extra pay, while in 

others they may receive a one-time stipend when training is completed, or they may receive 

extra salary for their role. In addition, due to the nature of the job, law enforcement 

phlebotomists may also qualify for overtime pay if the agency/department makes that 

available. 

Are law enforcement phlebotomists used to draw blood for cases other than DWI 

arrests? 

This will vary by law enforcement agency policy. Some agencies/departments do use law 

enforcement phlebotomists for other cases such as criminal investigations, fatal car accidents, 

DNA testing, communicable disease testing, and drawing of officers’ blood as needed. 

Existing Program Examples 

Brief histories of some existing law enforcement phlebotomy programs are provided below. This 

is not an exhaustive list of programs but is meant to illustrate those programs that are considered 

pioneers in law enforcement phlebotomy. Points of contact change on a frequent basis and 

therefore are not included in this toolkit. However, for more information about each program it is 

recommended that you visit the agency or department website for contact information. 
25

Arizona 

As described in Law Enforcement Phlebotomy for Safer Roads, by Alberto Gutier, Director of 

the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) 

(www.azgohs.gov/programs/LEL%20042016%20PhlebotomyNewsArticle.pdf), the first law 

enforcement phlebotomy program began at Arizona DPS in 1995. DPS began this program to 

address concerns with the number of DWI investigations that resulted in no chemical evidence 

due to test refusals, the need for officers in rural areas to efficiently obtain a blood draw on a 

DWI suspect, the refusal or inability of hospital staff to obtain blood samples for law 

enforcement and the continuing need to increase the safety of the public through effective DWI 

enforcement. 

When the program started, the trooper attended a two-semester clinical-phlebotomy class at a 

local community college. As the number of trained phlebotomists increased, GOHS and DPS 

realized a more efficient solution was needed for training. In 2000, with GOHS support, Cathee 

Tankersley, Program Director for Phoenix College, developed and implemented a 60-hour Law 

Enforcement Phlebotomy Program (LEPP) course. This program focused primarily on drawing 

blood from adults in a clinical or outpatient setting. Officers who took the training were required 

to complete all of the course homework before attending the course and then complete the actual 

course in 5 days. The course currently takes a bit more time. It has been expanded to other 

community college districts and is now used to train officers from agencies all over the State. 

Arizona now has more than 70 police agencies with at least one trained phlebotomist and more 

than 550 law enforcement phlebotomists, spread across each county, each Highway Patrol 

District, and most municipalities. 

While the majority of DWI investigations involving Arizona law enforcement phlebotomists 

used consensual draws, there were some cases where the subjects refused. In 1998, GOHS 

Director Alberto Gutier supported the development of telephonic and tele-fax search warrant 

systems by Phoenix Police Department and DPS. With this type of warrant, local Justices of the 

Peace, who oversee most DPS criminal cases, had fax machines in their homes, allowing officers 

to contact the Justices directly after hours. A standard fill-in-the-blank search warrant form was 

developed and used. This system streamlined the search warrant process for blood draws, 

reducing the time to obtain a warrant from several hours to an average of 20-30 minutes. GOHS 

has since implemented the use of electronic warrants statewide, which is even more efficient.

The primary source of funding for the Arizona Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program is 

provided by GOHS through NHTSA Section 402 and 405 program areas. GOHS funds 

phlebotomy courses, textbooks and instructors. Arizona has constant phlebotomist coverage 

through a combination of funding from GOHS and law enforcement agencies. 

There are only two known civil law suits that have been brought against an individual 

department since the inception of the LEPP in Arizona. Both of these suits were dismissed for 

lack of merit. 

When the LEPP was started in 1995, Arizona had a 20-percent refusal rate. By 2007, this rate 

had dropped to 8.56 percent statewide, and as of 2016 it was at 5 percent. It appears refusal rates 

may have dropped in large part due to increased public awareness. The public is more aware that 

if one refuses to have a blood draw after an arrest for DWI, a 1-year license suspension will 

result, and law enforcement can easily obtain a search warrant to draw blood, with judges 

available 24 hours a day to process warrants through electronic warrants. 
26

Arizona GOHS has worked with or supported agencies in Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Minnesota, 

Utah, and Washington to help implement similar programs in those States. 

Idaho 

In 2008, the Nampa Police Department implemented a no-refusal blood draw policy for all DWI 

cases. As a result, they began to explore options for drawing blood, including at a hospital, 

civilian contract phlebotomists, paramedics, and law enforcement phlebotomists. It was 

determined that hospitals and civilian contract phlebotomists were cost prohibitive. Fire 

department paramedics were a plausible option, but they were unavailable at times leading to 

diminishing evidence. In addition, using fire department paramedics added complexities to the 

chain of evidence, they weren’t always available for testimony, and it was using another 

agency’s resources. Law enforcement phlebotomists were the ideal solution. NHTSA provided 

the Nampa Police Department with grant funding to begin a program following the Arizona 

model. 

The Nampa LEPP began in August 2009, with 10 trained law enforcement phlebotomists. 

Training is provided by the College of Western Idaho and includes 48 hours of online pre-course 

work, 30 hours of in-class training, and 40 hours of clinical training and assessments.

The Nampa Police Department spent a notable amount of time educating the media about the 

program, explaining that blood draws are only performed when a breath test is refused or 

unavailable, blood draws are only conducted in a controlled environment, and that officers are 

trained phlebotomists. This was done through numerous media releases prior to implementation, 

inviting the media to observe blood draws during the final day of training at the initiation of the 

program, and inviting the media to interview officers in training, instructors, and prosecutors. 

With the implementation of the LEPP in Nampa, the refusal rate has declined, and more 

offenders are agreeing to take a breath test. Due to the success of the Nampa program, several 

other departments in Idaho have also implemented LEPPs, including Caldwell Police 

Department, Homedale Police Department, Owyhee County Sheriff’s Office, Twin Falls Police 

Department, Coeur d’Alene Police Department, and Pocatello Police Department.

Minnesota 

In 2011, Minnesota began training law enforcement professionals as phlebotomists to bolster law 

enforcement officers’ and agencies’ abilities to obtain evidence in impaired-driving cases. This 

training is funded by Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety with 

funds from NHTSA. In conjunction with Dakota County Technical College (DCTC), a 

phlebotomy training curriculum specific to law enforcement professionals was developed. 

Recognizing that there was no need to train law enforcement officers to draw samples from 

children or from areas other than the arm and hand, DCTC’s full phlebotomy course was adapted 

for law enforcement purposes. 

The Minnesota Law Enforcement Phlebotomist curriculum includes an 8-hour online course, 24 

hours of classroom training that includes draws from both live subjects and inanimate training 

aids, and 50 successful blood draws in a clinical setting. The classroom training portion includes 

sessions on medical terminology, safety procedures, overview of laboratory processing, blood 

collection procedures, anatomy, physiology, evidentiary requirements and duties, and trial 

preparation and tactics.
27

In addition to successfully completing the initial training, law enforcement phlebotomists must 

maintain their authorization through annual requalification requirements. Law enforcement 

phlebotomist annual requirements include the following.

• Perform a minimum of two successful venipunctures witnessed and verified by qualified, 

licensed medical personnel; 

• Attend a requalification course in phlebotomy techniques through DCTC; 

• Maintain a log of blood draws to show proficiency; and

• Submit the log and all reports to the Minnesota State law enforcement phlebotomy 

coordinator.

Law enforcement phlebotomists not adhering to the annual requalification requirements will be 

removed from the program, and their authorization to complete blood draws will be voided.

As of 2018, Minnesota had 48 law enforcement phlebotomists representing 22 law enforcement 

agencies throughout the State.

Utah 

In 2005, Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) officers began phlebotomy training after working with 

Arizona DPS officers to conduct blood draws for DWI investigations near the Arizona/Utah 

border. Since then, training has expanded throughout the State to include all law enforcement 

agencies. Training was, and continues to be, provided by Phoenix College through the Utah 

School of Phlebotomy, with 65 officers initially trained as phlebotomists. Since 2005, training 

has expanded throughout the State to include all law enforcement agencies. As of 2018, there 

were over 350 law enforcement officer phlebotomists with a current permit from the State Health 

Department to draw blood for drugs and alcohol. 

Washington State 

The Lakewood Police Department was the first department in Washington State to implement a 

LEPP, launching the program in March 2017 with six trained officers. In March 2018, the Pierce 

County Sheriff’s Department joined the program by training 20 additional LEPs to better serve 

the region. The Lakewood program was paid for with a $50,000 grant and Pierce County 

received $93,000 from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. Training occurs through 

Bates Technical College to obtain a certificate in Phlebotomy. Under the Lakewood/Pierce 

County LEPP, blood is drawn in one of four locations, including a former interview room in the 

police station, which now houses a phlebotomy chair. The room has audio and video recording 

capabilities.

The Lakewood PD worked closely with the media to share information about the program. This 

included issuing a press release about the program 

(http://www.cityoflakewood.us/communications/blog/1573-lakewood-police-officers-first-inwashington-to-do-in-house-blood-draws-on-suspected-duis), holding a press conference, offering 

demonstrations, and posting a video on YouTube showing the Lakewood Police Chief having his 

blood drawn by a trained officer (www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJnOZ6Dk-14). 

As of January 2018, the department had conducted 150 draws, and the success of the program 

led to other departments in Washington requesting funds to implement their own phlebotomy 

programs. In 2018, the Lakewood Police Department was awarded a Municipal Excellence 

Award for the Phlebotomy Program. A short video about the program is available at 

www.youtube/0XIxq5GiLcA.
28

Talking Points for Media, the Public, and Decision-Makers 

Agencies and States that have successfully implemented a law enforcement phlebotomy program 

have found that there are several key points that were helpful when giving presentations and 

holding discussions to obtain buy-in from decision makers, as well as to gain support of the 

media and public. These key points include:

• Prosecutors need definitive evidence and effective witnesses (law enforcement) to 

successfully convict a driver of DWI, especially drug-impaired driving. A law 

enforcement phlebotomy program provides both.

• Obtaining and testing blood for BAC and drug content is time-sensitive. If the blood is 

not obtained and tested in a timely manner, the evidence is lost. For example, Delta 9-

THC (marijuana) levels in blood can decline significantly within a few hours (Compton, 

2017). 

• Training is robust, and it mirrors training received by medical personnel. 

• Officers are not drawing blood at the roadside; it is done in a phlebotomy chair, in a safe 

and contained environment, with the proper equipment, and meets healthcare standards. 

• A law enforcement phlebotomy program allows the officer to return to service faster. 

This is especially beneficial to smaller or more rural agencies, where a DWI arrest may 

take an officer off the road for a long period of time while they obtain blood evidence at a 

hospital or other location. 

• The chain of custody is simplified when an officer draws blood and then secures it, rather 

than obtaining it from a civilian technician prior to booking.

• A law enforcement phlebotomy program eliminates the ethical issues faced by medical

personnel when a patient refuses a blood draw.

• A law enforcement phlebotomy program reduces costs by eliminating payments to 

medical facilities that perform blood draws.

• Agencies and departments in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, Texas, Utah, 

Washington State, and other States have successfully implemented law enforcement 

phlebotomy programs with no significant legal issues to date. 

In addition to these key points, agencies that have implemented a law enforcement phlebotomy 

program have found that being as transparent as possible with the media is beneficial to 

obtaining favorable press coverage. The following examples show how the Lakewood, 

Washington, Police Department worked closely with the media to share information about their 

phlebotomy program when it was first launched, including inviting them to watch an officer do a 

blood draw on the police chief. 

• Press Release – www.cityoflakewood.us/communications/blog/1573-lakewood-policeofficers-first-in-washington-to-do-in-house-blood-draws-on-suspected-duis

• YouTube Video demonstrating how a blood draw is conducted –

www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJnOZ6Dk-14

• Lakewood law enforcement officers to do blood draws to speed DUI cases – March 2014 

article in the News Tribune about the Lakewood (Washington) law enforcement

department phlebotomy program - www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/ crime 

/article136373773.html

• Municipal Excellence Award Video discusses the benefits of the program and shows a 

demonstration of a blood draw – youtube/0XIxq5GiLcA
29

Links to More Information 

Articles

• Blood Draw Program to Target Habitual Offenders – July 2017 article in the Bonner 

County Daily Bee about the Coeur d’Alene (Idaho) law enforcement phlebotomy

program (www.bonnercountydailybee.com/local_news/20170714/blooddraw_program_to_ target_habitual_offenders)

• Lakewood law enforcement officers to do blood draws to speed DUI cases – March 2014 

article in the News Tribune about the Lakewood (Washington) law enforcement

department phlebotomy program (www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/ crime 

/article136373773.html)

• Law Enforcement Phlebotomy for Safer Roads – Article in the April 2016 issue of Law 

Enforcement Improving Traffic Safety, authored by Alberto Gutier, Arizona’s 

Governor’s Highway Safety Representative (www.azgohs.gov/programs/LEL%20042016 

%20PhlebotomyNewsArticle.pdf)

• Meet Nampa’s Phlebotocops – October 2014 article in the Idaho Press about the Nampa, 

Idaho law enforcement phlebotomy program (www.idahopress.com/members/ meetnampa-s-phlebotocops/article_f503d41a-55b9-11e4-9b65-6381d9f37899.html)

• Officers’ New Tool Against DWI: Syringe – September 2009 Associated Press article 

about law enforcement phlebotomy programs (www.nytimes.com/2009/ 

09/14/us/14blood.html)

• For the Road Newsletter – Quarterly newsletter that helps Idaho prosecutors and law 

enforcement officers successfully prosecute cases involving impaired driving (www.tsrpidaho.org/newsletter_00.html)

Reports 

• Driving While Impaired Arrest Process Improvement – NHTSA report that describes six 

case studies of strategies used by law enforcement, including law enforcement 

phlebotomists, to reduce the cost and time of processing a DWI arrest

(www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/pdf/812308-DWI-Arrest-Process-Improvement.pdf)

• Traffic Safety Facts: Breath Test Refusals – NHTSA brief that describes the use of 

warrants to draw blood as a promising strategy to combat breath test refusals

(www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/810871.pdf)

• Use of Warrants to Reduce Breath Test Refusals: Experiences from North Carolina –

NHTSA report that presents case studies from three counties in North Carolina describing 

the effectiveness of a search warrant program to draw blood for DWI cases

(www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/811461.pdf)

Press Releases/Media 

• Lakewood police first in state to do blood draws on suspected DUIs – Press release from 

the city of Lakewood, WA (www.cityoflakewood.us/communications/blog/1573-

lakewood-police-officers-first-in-washington-to-do-in-house-blood-draws-on-suspectedduis)

• Unique Phlebotomy class offered to local peace officers needing training to take DWI 

blood samples – Press release from Lone Star College (Texas) announcing their law 

enforcement phlebotomy training program (www.lonestar.edu/news/14236.htm)
30

Videos 

• Video of Lakewood, WA police chief having blood drawn by an officer phlebotomist 

(www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJnOZ6Dk-14)

• 2018 Lakewood Municipal Excellence Awards video – Discusses how the Lakewood 

LEPP was started, how Lakewood convinced decision makers about the benefits of the 

program, and demonstrates how blood draws are conducted discusses the benefits of the 

program and shows a demonstration of a blood draw (www.youtube/0XIxq5GiLcA)

Webinars 

• The Real Pros of a Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program – Recording of a May 2016 

webinar sponsored by the National Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor program

(www.nlelp.org/tsrp-traffic-tuesdays-webinar-recordings/) 

Websites 

• Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Phlebotomy Program – Website 

describing the history, funding, training, and benefits of Arizona’s program

(www.azgohs.gov/programs/default.asp?ID=48) 

 
31

Sample Material 

The appendices to this toolkit include several templates that can be used as a starting point for 

developing policies, procedures, reports, and other documentation for a law enforcement 

phlebotomy program. These templates have been developed using documentation from existing 

law enforcement phlebotomy programs. Agencies/departments should customize these templates 

to their needs based on State legislation, agency/department size, funding, training requirements, 

and other parameters that are unique to each State and agency/department. In addition, this

material should be developed through a coordinated effort with all law enforcement phlebotomy 

program stakeholders and reviewed by legal counsel before finalization. The material may need 

to be updated over time as policies and guidance change based on the needs of the program. 

• Appendix A: Standards for Law Enforcement Phlebotomists – Some agencies 

maintain a list of standards that all law enforcement phlebotomists must follow. These 

standards may summarize the agency/department’s Phlebotomy Policy and Guidelines.

• Appendix B: Policy and Guidelines – All agencies/departments should have

documentation of their phlebotomy program policy and guidelines. This document 

includes high-level information on what phlebotomists must do for all blood draws, as 

well as guidelines and recommendations for what they may do depending on the 

circumstance. 

• Appendix C: Blood Draw Report – This report is used by the phlebotomist to document 

all blood draws and contains information regarding the procedures used, timeframes, any 

documented medical issues or concerns about the subject, and other pertinent information 

to maintain evidence and documentation of the draw. The sample blood draw report is 

described in the sample Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Manual.

• Appendix D: Phlebotomy Log – Some agencies/departments maintain a log of all blood 

draws in addition to maintaining copies of blood draw reports. The log allows an 

agency/department to easily determine how many draws were performed in a particular 

timeframe, see who made the draws, and track inventory of blood draw kits. 

• Appendix E: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Manual – The manual is similar to the 

policy and guidelines, but it goes into more detail about the required procedures, storage 

of blood after it is drawn, disposal of equipment, and handling combative subjects. 

 
32

References 

Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety. (2018). Phlebotomy Program. Retrieved from 

www.azgohs.gov/programs/default.asp?ID=48.

Berning, A., Compton, R., Vegega, M., Beirness, D., Hedlund, J., Jones, R., & Nichols, J. 

(2008). Refusal of Intoxication Testing: A Report to Congress. Washington, DC: National 

Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Retrieved from 

www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/811098_1.pdf

Berning, A., Beirness, D., Hedlund, J., & Jones, R. (2007). Breath Test Refusals (Traffic Safety 

Facts Research Note, Report No. DOT HS 810 871). Washington, DC: National Highway 

Traffic Safety Administration. Retrieved from 

www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/810871.pdf

Birchfield v. North Dakota, 579 U.S. _ (2016). Retrieved from 

https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/579/14-1468/. 

Compton, R. (2017, July). Marijuana-Impaired Driving: A Report to Congress. (DOT HS 812 

440). Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Retrieved from 

www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/documents/812440-marijuana-impaired-drivingreport-to-congress.pdf

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Department of Justice (US) (2017). Crime in the United 

States 2016: Uniform Crime Reports. Washington (DC). Retrieved 

from ucr.fbi.gov/crime-in-the-u.s/2016/crime-in-the-u.s.-2016/tables/table-18

Hedlund, J. (2017). Drug-Impaired Driving: A Guide for States. Washington, DC: Governors 

Highway Safety Association. Available at www.ghsa.org/sites/default/files/2017-

07/GHSA_DruggedDriving2017_FINAL_revised.pdf

Kelley-Baker, T. (2014). Marijuana and Driving Performance. Retrieved from Presentation at 

TRB Alcohol, Other Drugs and Transportation Committee 2014 Midyear Meeting.

Logan, B.K. (2014). Thresholds for THC and Driving. Presentation at TRB Alcohol, Other 

Drugs and Transportation Committee 2014 Midyear Meeting.

Marose, D. (2017). Law Enforcement Has Another Tool in the Fight Against Impaired Driving: 

Law Enforcement Phlebotomy in Minnesota.

Minnesota Traffic Law Enforcement Training Program. (2017). Training Announcement: Law 

Enforcement Phlebotomist. Retrieved from 

dps.mn.gov/divisions/msp/about/Documents/Training%20Announcement%20August%2

02017.pdf
33

Missouri v. McNeely, 569 U.S. 141 (2013). Retrieved from 

supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/569/11-1425/.

Namuswe, E, Coleman, H., & Berning, A. (2014). Breath Test Refusal Rates in the United States 

– 2011 Update. Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Retrieved from www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/breath_test_refusal_rates811881.pdf

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (2017). Traffic Safety Facts 2016 Data: 

Alcohol-Impaired Driving. U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, DC;

Retrieved from crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812450

Olson, J. (2016). Law Enforcement Phlebotomy: An introduction to the 6 Steps in creating a 

quality Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program. Handout from Idaho Prosecuting 

Attorneys Association Conference 2016.

Schmerber v. California, 384 U.S. 757 (1966). Retrieved from

supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/384/757/case.html

State of Idaho: Impaired Driving Program. (2017). Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Training 

Program. Retrieved from 

www.post.idaho.gov/Reg2/052617PhlebotomyTrainingApplication.pdf

State v. May, 2 CA-CR 2004-0099 Court of Appeals, State of Arizona – Division Two. Retrieved 

from caselaw.findlaw.com/az-court-of-appeals/1419603.html

Utah Department of Public Safety. (2017). Additional Non-POST Sponsored Training: Peace 

Officer Standards and Training. Retrieved from post.utah.gov/in-serviceinvestigations/additional-non-post-sponsored-training/
A-1

Appendix A: Standards for Law Enforcement Phlebotomists 

This is an example only. These standards are not representative of any one law enforcement 

phlebotomy program and will need to be revised based on an individual agency or department’s 

needs. 

1. All blood draws will strictly adhere to [state/county/agency/department] policies.

2. Law enforcement phlebotomists successfully completing the [training program name] 

Law Enforcement Phlebotomy training program will be recognized as qualified for 

drawing blood samples for legal purposes.

3. Law enforcement phlebotomists will be allowed to complete blood draws on all DWI 

arrestees, regardless of the arresting officer. 

4. Law enforcement phlebotomists will make every effort to complete the evidentiary blood 

kit paperwork and seal and package the completed blood kit in the subject’s presence.

5. Law enforcement phlebotomists shall make every effort to complete the blood draw in a 

controlled setting; minimizing the chance of discomfort and injury. A draw should only 

occur if the subject is in a safe and secure position, and the law enforcement phlebotomist 

is comfortable with the setting. 

6. Law enforcement phlebotomists should consider having the draw witnessed by another 

officer or supervisor particularly with uncooperative or combative subjects.

7. Law enforcement phlebotomists shall use evidentiary blood kits supplied by [name of 

supplier]. Ancillary equipment required for a successful blood draw may be used (e.g.,

tourniquets) as needed and required. Ancillary equipment [will/will not] be provided by 

[state/county/agency/department].

8. Annual requalification requirements as outlined must be completed as required by 

[training program name] policies. Law enforcement phlebotomists who do not 

successfully complete annual requalification training will be removed from the program,

and their authorization to complete blood draws will be voided. 

9. Law enforcement phlebotomists must maintain a log of all blood draws made. Copies of 

logs must be maintained by the law enforcement phlebotomist. Law enforcement 

phlebotomists must submit a completed log of draws to the program coordinator 

annually. 
B-1

Appendix B: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Policy and Guidelines 

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy establishes protocol and guidelines for the performance of those officers trained in 

phlebotomy to ensure a uniform approach is used for all blood draws. 

2. Definition and Qualifications

A. Definition of Law Enforcement Phlebotomist 

1. Those trained through a recognized phlebotomy program that meets the requirements 

necessary to award course credits and is comparable with training offered at [NAME 

OF PHLEBOTOMY TRAINING PROGRAM USED BY 

DEPARTMENT/AGENCY].

2. Any other qualified person that meets the definition of “qualified person” as outlined 

in [NAME SPECIFIC STATE STATUTE].

B. Continued Qualification for Law Enforcement Personnel

1. Perform a minimum of [TYPICAL NUMBER IS 2-4] successful venipunctures per 

year as witnessed and verified by qualified, licensed medical personnel. 

2. Attend a requalification course in phlebotomy techniques when offered by the 

[AGENCY/DEPARTMENT] Phlebotomy Coordinator every 2 years.

3. Regulations

A. Law enforcement phlebotomists performing venipuncture should adhere to the policies 

of their licensing agency/State regulations.

B. Only law enforcement officers trained in phlebotomy, who have been approved of by the 

agency/department to perform phlebotomy may conduct blood draws. 

C. Blood will not be drawn without a search warrant or lawful exception to a warrant 

requirement.

D. Law enforcement phlebotomists are authorized to draw blood for alcohol/drug content or 

hazardous substances in accordance with [NAME SPECIFIC STATE STATUTE]

(DWI and CVO cases). 

4. Procedures

A. Arresting officers should:

1. Contact a supervisor prior to requesting a phlebotomist. 

2. Witness the blood draw. 
B-2

B. Law enforcement phlebotomists performing venipuncture are obtaining evidence and 

should make notes in reference to the suspect’s statements and actions which may aid in 

prosecution.

C. Who may draw blood? A law enforcement phlebotomist performing venipuncture may: 

1. Draw blood from a suspect he/she has personally arrested for DWI and/or Criminal 

Vehicular Operation. 

2. Summon another Law Enforcement Phlebotomist to collect the specimen, if the 

officer/phlebotomist feels that it would be in the best interest of the officer, subject, 

agency, and criminal and civil cases.

D. Testing procedures. Law enforcement phlebotomists performing venipuncture should:

1. Ensure the arresting officer witnesses the blood draw when available.

2. Select an alternative subject site if a second draw attempt is necessary.

3. Not exceed two attempts (in two separate subject sites) to complete a successful draw.

4. Offer alternative testing after two unsuccessful draw attempts.

5. Only use force that is reasonably necessary, given the nature of the offense, to 

conduct a blood draw. Subjects who physically resist a blood draw may be subject to 

additional charges which may include obstruction and/or assault. The behavior of the 

subject should be documented. 

E. Documentation. Law enforcement phlebotomists performing venipuncture should:

1. Complete a Blood Draw Report (pursuant to agency/department policies) for each 

subject blood draw.

2. Include a copy of the supplemental report with the case file related to the 

investigation

3. Forward a copy of the supplemental report to the [AGENCY/DEPARTMENT] Law 

Enforcement Phlebotomy Coordinator.

4. Complete a Law Enforcement Phlebotomist Log of Blood Draws (Log) pursuant to 

agency/department policies.

5. Submit the Log annually to the [AGENCY/DEPARTMENT] Law Enforcement 

Phlebotomy Coordinator.

6. Complete all pertinent documentation contained in the [DEPARTMENT/AGENCY]

blood collection kit.

F. After the blood draw. Law enforcement phlebotomists performing venipuncture should:

1. Turn over the completed kit to the arresting officer or submit it into evidence per 

agency/department policies.

2. Keep blood evidence samples in a refrigerator or a cooler. The specimen should be 

delivered to the toxicology lab as soon as possible. 

3. Locate a facility in the area they work where the biohazardous waste can be 

destroyed. Local hospitals would be the best option for this service. All biological 

hazardous waste will be properly destroyed.
B-3

G. Equipment

The needle, hub, and other venipuncture supplies should be disposed of according to 

recommended OSHA and agency/department guidelines. 

H. Law enforcement phlebotomists should maintain a professional image at all times. 

1. Lab coats and/or a law enforcement uniform (OSHA requirement) should be worn 

when collecting blood specimen.

2. Protective exam gloves must be worn by anyone performing blood draws.

5. Assist Other Agencies

There may be occasions where other law enforcement agencies request the services of a law 

enforcement agency/department phlebotomist. To assist with such cases, the phlebotomist 

must confirm that a valid search warrant, pursuant to SOP and DWI and implied consent 

statutes, has been obtained prior to proceeding with a blood draw. Those requests will be 

honored when reasonably feasible. However, the officer will be considered to be on duty as a 

[NAME OF AGENCY/DEPARTMENT] law enforcement officer while acting at the 

request of another law enforcement agency, and must complete any blood draw in 

compliance with Department SOP and [IDENTIFY STATE STATUTE].

6. Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Coordinator Responsibilities 

The Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Coordinator is responsible for:

1. Coordinating initial training of law enforcement phlebotomists.

2. Coordinating requalification training of active law enforcement phlebotomists.

3. Disseminating information from the State Highway Safety Office.

4. Selecting and overseeing officer enrollment.

5. Maintain training and enforcement records for all law enforcement phlebotomists.
C-1

Appendix C: Blood Draw Report 
D-1

Appendix D: Phlebotomy Log 

[STATE NAME] LAW ENFORCEMENT PHLEBOTOMIST PROGRAM

LOG OF BLOOD DRAWS

NAME AGENCY PAGE 

SUSPECT’S NAME DOB ARREST DEPT. DATE/TIME KIT 

NUMBER

ARM 

USED

MISCELLANEOUS

(Arresting Officer, 

Etc.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
E-1

Appendix E: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Manual 

The following example Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Manual provides more details about the 

Phlebotomy Program requirements than the Standards in Appendix A and Policy and Guidelines 

in Appendix B. The processes, procedures, and terminology used in this example manual may 

not be used by all law enforcement agencies, and therefore if an agency chooses to use this 

manual, they should revise it based on their needs.
E-2

 [DEPARTMENT/AGENCY NAME]

Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program Manual

Last Revised: [ENTER DATE]
E-3

Prepared by: [AGENCY/DEPARTMENT NAME]

Manual Issue Date: [DATE]

Approved By: 

[SIGNATURE OF AGENCY/DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE AUTHORIZED TO APPROVE 

MANUAL]
E-4

Introduction

The mission of the [Agency/Department] Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program is to promote 

public safety with a safe, secure means to collect blood for evidentiary purposes, and to

accomplish the procedure with integrity and accountability to the citizens of the State of [STATE 

NAME]. This manual provides direction for agency/department employees who are trained as

law enforcement phlebotomists.

Throughout this manual, the term “phlebotomist” is used to designate an individual who is 

specifically trained and currently qualified to perform venipunctures. Safety during a blood draw 

is paramount, and it is the duty of each phlebotomist to follow the procedures as outlined in this 

manual. Every phlebotomist who completes a venipuncture shall complete the required 

documentation; such as the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report form [OR OTHER REQUIRED 

FORM].

This manual shall also function as direction for properly completing departmental forms associated 

with the blood draw.

The [Agency/Department] Phlebotomy Coordinator is responsible for the Phlebotomy Program, 

manual, and forms.Any questions should be directed to the Phlebotomy Coordinator for review.
E-5

I. Qualifications

[STATE NAME] law allows qualified persons to draw blood for the purposes of 

forensic blood alcohol or drug analysis. A properly trained law enforcement

phlebotomist is considered a qualified person. [STATE STATUTE NAME AND 

NUMBER] specifies the persons qualified to perform phlebotomy. 

A. State Law Requirements

[INCLUDE STATE LAW SPECIFICS RELATED TO PHLEBOTOMY]

B. Training

Troopers who perform the duties of a forensic phlebotomist shall be qualified

through a recognized phlebotomy program. [PROVIDE DESCRIPTION OF 

ALLOWED TRAINING PROGRAM(S)].

Students spend [NUMBER OF HOURS] hours in a clinical setting where they 

complete more than [NUMBER] successful venipunctures. Students take

practical and written final examination where they must meet all competencies as 

prescribed. Officers who successfully complete and pass this course are required

to complete a refresher training course every [NUMBER OF YEARS].

Officers intending to become department phlebotomists should check with the

[ Agency/Department] Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program Coordinator for

current class locations and cost.

C. Phlebotomist Responsibilities

1. Phlebotomists shall adhere to an on-going requalification process as

designated by the [Agency/Department] Law Enforcement Phlebotomy 

Program Coordinator. This process includes: [DESCRIBE 

REQUALIFICATION PROCESS]

2. Agency/department phlebotomists not meeting the above requirements

shall have their program status reviewed by the [Agency/Department]

Phlebotomy Coordinator.

a. Agency/department phlebotomists not meeting the above 

requirements shall be suspended from conducting any

venipunctures for the purposes of collecting evidence or infection

control until they meet the above requirements and are approved to

do so by the [Agency/Department] Law Enforcement Phlebotomy

Program Coordinator.

b. The [Agency/Department] Law Enforcement Phlebotomy

Program Coordinator shall require a suspended department

phlebotomist to demonstrate proficiency by conducting an

instructor- or coordinator-observed training venipuncture. 
E-6

II. Blood Kit

A. General Information

1. [The agency/department] uses a standard blood kit for the purposes of

obtaining blood samples from subjects. The blood kits are an essential

piece of equipment. [NAME] maintains an inventory of these blood 

kits.

2. The phlebotomist shall be familiar with the following components and

procedures related to the blood kit:

a. The equipment

b. The proper procedure for completing the included paperwork

c. The proper sealing/resealing of the evidence

d. The chain of custody procedures

3. The blood kit contains forms used for identification and documentation of

the blood draw. 

B. Blood Kit

[DESCRIBE BLOOD KIT] Example: the blood kit has an outer cardboard 

transport module and an inner container. The phlebotomist shall verify the blood

kit’s seal is intact prior to use. If the seal is broken, the blood kit shall not be

used.

C. Expiration Date and Lot Number

The phlebotomist, prior to the blood draw, shall verify the expiration date on the

outside container is valid. The expiration date will coincide with the expiration 

dates on the enclosed blood tubes. The lot number of the blood kit is also located

on the outside container. The phlebotomist shall record both the expiration date

and lot number on the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report [OR OTHER 

REQUIRED FORM].

2-1
E-7

D. Blood Collection Tubes

[DESCRIBE TUBES, EXAMPLE PROVIDED BELOW]

1. The included gray-topped evacuated blood tubes are used for blood 

alcohol screening and have two chemical additives inside. These chemical 

additives are:

a. Sodium fluoride. An antiglycolytic agent which inhibits the metabolic 

breakdown of glucose (blood sugar) by the blood cells.

b. Potassium oxalate. An anticoagulation agent.

2. The gray-topped tubes may be used for collection of deoxyribonucleic 

acid (DNA) or communicable disease samples when the other types of 

tubes are not available.

3. The phlebotomist shall verify that the integrity of the tube is intact 

and visually ensure that the chemical additive is present.

4. The phlebotomist shall not use expired tubes.

5. Lavender-topped tubes containing the anticoagulant 

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) are used for collection of DNA

specimens. Lavender-topped tubes are also used for collection of blood 

for analysis/screening of specific hallucinogenic and/or inhalant drugs or 

metabolites. The phlebotomist shall verify that the integrity of the tube is 

intact and visually ensure that the chemical additive inside is present.

6. Blue-topped tubes (containing the anticoagulant sodium citrate) are used 

for collection of blood for analysis/screening of specific synthetic 

stimulants and synthetic cannabinoids. The phlebotomist shall verify that 

the integrity of the tube is intact and visually ensure that the chemical 

additive inside is present.

7. When collecting lavender- or blue-topped tubes for drug analysis, 

the phlebotomist shall also collect two grey-topped tubes.

8. Serum Separator Tubes (SST), which are red and black “tiger top” or gold 

tubes, should be used to collect samples for communicable disease testing. 

Serum separator tubes have a gel inside that will separate the blood serum 

from the other parts of the whole blood. When an SST is used for 

collection, centrifuge the sample within 30 minutes of venipuncture.
E-8

9. For additional information on communicable disease exposure procedures, see 

Section VII, Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure and the Centers for Disease 

Control website.

E. Biohazard Label

A biohazard label shall be affixed to the outside of the outer transport module if 

the container is not already labeled.

F. Blood Kit Chain of Custody

1. After the phlebotomist has completed the blood draw, proper chain of 

custody procedures shall be followed to ensure that the blood evidence 

is secure prior to transport. The phlebotomist or employee transporting 

the blood evidence shall ensure the proper chain of custody using the 

procedures outlined in the [NAME OF MANUAL OR 

AGENCY/DEPARTMENT REGULATION].

2. The blood tubes shall be kept in the phlebotomist’s or arresting 

officer’s possession until properly labeled and sealed into the blood 

kit.

3. The following guidelines for packaging the blood evidence into the blood 

kit shall be followed.

a. Mark the tubes with the name or identification of the subject, 

date and time of the draw, report number, and the name or initials 

of the phlebotomist performing the draw. The blood kit contains 

labels that the phlebotomist may use or the information may be 

written directly on the tube label.

b. Place the marked and sealed blood tubes into the inner container.

c. Once the tubes have been placed in the inner container, place the

evidence seal on the junction of the box opening.

d. The inner container shall be placed into the self-closing plastic bag 

and then placed in the outer transport container.

e. The outer transport container shall be closed and then sealed 

using the tamper-evident kit shipping seal.

f. The outer container of the blood kit shall be marked with the report

number and the package or item number.

g. The final seal on the blood kit shall be evidence-packaging tape.
E-9

h. The phlebotomist shall initial the evidence tape in accordance 

with procedures outlined in the [NAME OF 

AGENCY/DEPARTMENT’S EVIDENCE MANUAL OR 

REGULATION].

4. Once the blood kit has been sealed, the phlebotomist may transport or turn 

over the blood kit to the arresting officer or third party for transport. 

G. Butterfly Needles and Syringes

During the course of a blood draw, the phlebotomist may encounter situations 

where equipment not supplied in the blood kit is used. Use of this equipment, 

such as butterfly needles and syringes, shall be documented in the space provided 

on the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report [OR OTHER REQUIRED 

DOCUMENTATION].

III. Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report

NOTE: THE INFORMATION IN THIS SECTION CORRESPONDS WITH THE SAMPLE 

BLOOD DRAW REPORT TEMPLATE. THIS SECTION WILL NEED TO BE REVISED 

TO MATCH WITH THE INFORMATION INCLUDED IN THE BLOOD DRAW REPORT 

THAT THE DEPARTMENT/AGENCY USES.

The Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report contains information the phlebotomist is required to 

document during the course of contact with the subject. This form shall be used for each 

blood draw and shall include the information listed below. 

A. Report Number

The report number shall be recorded in the appropriate location on the form. 

B. Other Agency Protocol

If a department phlebotomist administers a blood draw for another law 

enforcement agency, the phlebotomist shall record the other agency’s report 

number in the space provided on the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report.

C. Subject Identification

1. The phlebotomist or arresting officer shall identify the subject and 

complete the top portion of the report. The phlebotomist shall record 

the criminal charge (if applicable). The check boxes for search warrant, 

consent to draw, and felony shall be marked appropriately.

2. The arresting officer’s name and badge number shall be documented in 

the space provided. The phlebotomist’s name, badge number, and 

department shall be documented in the proper space provided.
E-10

3. The phlebotomist may gather additional information to identify the 

subject later; for example, a photograph or fingerprint of the subject in the 

space provided on the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report.

D. Blood Draw

1. The phlebotomist shall record information for each blood draw in the 

appropriate space on the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report.

2. When a second blood draw is performed by a phlebotomist on the same 

subject, the information shall be documented on the same form in the 

space provided for the second draw.

3. Third and subsequent blood draws may be documented on a second

Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report or in the narrative portion of the report.

4. The phlebotomist shall only perform blood draws on the side of the 

road inside a patrol car under exigent circumstances. It is the 

phlebotomist’s responsibility to ensure the safety of the subject and 

cleanliness of the draw area.

a. Area of blood draw shall be cleaned with disinfectant prior to 

draw.

b. Venipuncture site is cleaned in accordance with Clinical and 

Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards.

c. Subject shall be sitting or lying and shall be immobilized with use 

of a seatbelt or additional officer.

5. The following information shall be included on the form for each blood 

draw.

a. Date, time, and physical location where blood draw was 

performed

b. Blood kit manufacturer

c. Lot number of the blood kit

d. Specialty equipment used during the blood draw such as butterfly 

kit or syringe

e. Type of gloves used for the procedure

f. Expiration date of the blood kit

g. Site location of the blood draw on the subject
E-11

E. Medical Questions and Observations

To protect the health of the subject, the phlebotomist, other persons assisting with 

the blood draw, and personnel performing the blood analysis, every attempt 

should be made to obtain information from the subject relating to health and 

medical history of the subject.

The following information shall be documented on the form:

1. Medical Problems

It is important to attempt to identify medical problems that could 

complicate the procedure.

2. Allergies

Determination shall be made as to whether or not the subject has any 

known allergies. Allergies to prescription medications or over the counter 

medications should also be documented.

a. In cases where the subject is allergic to latex, use a non-latex 

tourniquet and gloves.

b. Allergies to shellfish or iodine may preclude use of a povidoneiodine or betadine swab. A benzalkonium swab or other nonalcoholic site cleaner should be used in these cases.

3. Infectious Diseases

Determination shall be made as to whether or not the subject has any 

known infectious diseases.

4. Medications/Blood Thinners

Determination shall be made as to whether or not the subject takes any 

medications. The subject shall be asked about prescription, over the 

counter medication, and drug use—legal or illegal. Medications such as 

aspirin, Coumadin (generic warfarin), and steroids are blood thinners and 

may increase clotting time.

5. Sick or Injured

The subject shall be asked about recent illness or injury.

3-3
E-12

6. Site Cleaner Used

The phlebotomist shall document information regarding the cleansing 

agent used at the location of the venipuncture by marking the 

appropriate box on the form.

7. Hand Washing

The phlebotomist shall document the handwashing technique utilized 

by marking the appropriate box on the form.

8. Subject’s Position During Procedure

The phlebotomist shall document the subject’s position during the 

procedure by marking the appropriate box. The subject shall be seated 

safely in a secure position, or in a supine position, depending on the 

location and environment in which the blood draw is performed. The 

phlebotomy blood draw shall not be performed while the subject is in a 

standing position.

9. Number of minute(s) for blood to clot at site of venipuncture

The clotting time shall also be documented on the form in the 

appropriate space. Normal clotting takes approximately 1 to 2 minutes. 

The phlebotomist shall request the assistance of paramedics or 

additional professional medical care when the patient continues to 

bleed more than 5 minutes.

F. Report Narrative

Document and describe any affirmative answers from the medical questions 

block. The narrative may also contain the following information:

1. Physical characteristics or statements made during the contact with 

the subject; for example, mood swings, refusal to submit.

2. Whether the subject resisted or did not resist the blood draw; for 

example, was the subject cooperative, was the subject escorted to the 

restraint chair, held down, handcuffed?

G. Signatures

1. A subject signature block has been provided to allow the 

phlebotomist to document consent of the blood draw on the 
E-13

Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report.

a. If the subject verbally consents, but refuses to sign, the 

phlebotomist shall write “Refused to Sign” in the signature 

block. The phlebotomist shall then document further 

information on the narrative portion of the form. A witness 

shall be present in these instances. If a witness is not available, 

an audio or video recording of verbal consent may be used.

b. If the blood draw is not a consent draw, the phlebotomist 

shall document the type of draw, such as “search warrant” 

in the signature block.

2. The phlebotomist shall sign the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report 

and document the date and time signed.

3. If there is a witness to the blood draw, the witness should sign the

Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report and document the date and time 

signed.

H. Copy Distribution

The Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report is a triplicate form. The copy distribution 

is as follows:

1. White, original is maintained by the arresting officer for forwarding to

Records – officer may retain a photocopy.

2. Yellow copy is maintained by the phlebotomist.

3. Pink copy is forwarded to the Department Phlebotomy Coordinator.

IV. Search Warrant Protocol

A. Search Warrants

Officers may encounter situations where obtaining a search warrant for bodily 

fluids is necessary during the course of a criminal investigation. When a search 

warrant is obtained, jurisdictional procedures shall be followed. [DESCRIBE 

PROCEDURES]
E-14

B. Combative Subjects

1. In obtaining a blood sample from a combative or uncooperative 

subject, officers shall take all steps necessary to ensure only 

reasonable force is used in accordance with [NAME GENERAL 

ORDER REGARDING USE OF FORCE]

2. An on-duty supervisor, the arresting officer, or the phlebotomist shall 

make the determination on whether or not to execute the warrant if the 

subject is combative and a threat to safety. The phlebotomist shall 

make the final determination on whether the circumstances or situation 

is sufficiently safe for all present, including the subject.

3. Officers shall use only the amount of force necessary to execute the 

warrant. Officers shall not use an electronic control weapon (ECW), 

hard impact weapons, chemical irritants, or any other weapon to 

subdue the subject during the blood draw.

4. The subject should be placed in a restraint chair. If a restraint chair 

is unavailable, officers may use other means of physical restraint.

5. The phlebotomist shall:

a. Remain professional and maintain decorum.

b. Be responsible for obtaining the blood sample.

c. Direct other officers who may be assisting with the procedure.

d. Be the final authority in determining whether to discontinue 

the procedure for safety reasons.

e. Through proper training, be familiar with the restraint chair 

and straps prior to use.

6. When a search warrant is served to the subject, the phlebotomist 

arresting officer shall explain to combative subjects the following 

hazards and ramifications of resisting:

a. Not complying with the execution of a search warrant may 

be a violation of [IDENTIFY STATE STATUTE].

b. If an officer is assaulted during the blood draw due to the 

subject becoming combative, the subject may be charged with 

a violation of [IDENTIFY STATE STATUTE].
E-15

C. Disease Testing

For information on communicable disease exposure and testing procedures, see 

Section VII, Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure and the Centers for Disease 

Control website.

V. Clinical Procedures

A. Blood Draw

1. The blood draw shall be administered in accordance with all 

training received by the phlebotomist.

2. The phlebotomist is responsible for the selection of a safe and clean 

physical location for the blood draw. If necessary, the phlebotomist 

should cleanse the physical area where the blood draw will be 

performed with an OSHA-approved disinfectant prior to and after the 

blood draw.

3. The phlebotomist shall gently invert the filled blood tubes to ensure 

that the tube additives are thoroughly mixed with the blood.

a. Gray-topped tubes should be inverted gently eight to ten 

times. Additional inversions may be necessary to 

thoroughly mix the powdered anticoagulant with the blood.

b. Lavender-topped tubes should be inverted gently eight to 10

times.

c. Blue-topped tubes should be inverted gently three to four times.

d. Serum separator tubes (SSTs) should be inverted gently five 

times.

4. The phlebotomist shall ensure that the blood tubes are completely 

and clearly labeled.

5. The phlebotomist shall ensure that medical personnel are contacted, as 

soon as practical, when any complications associated with the blood 

draw occur. The complications shall be documented [IDENTIFY 

WHERE DOCUMENTATION SHOULD OCCUR].
E-16

B. Subject

1. The phlebotomist or arresting officer is responsible for verifying the 

identification of the subject, including the subject’s full name and date 

of birth, through such means as a government-issued photo ID or 

fingerprints.

2. The subject shall be seated safely in a secure position, or in a supine 

position, depending on the location and environment that the blood 

draw is performed. The phlebotomy blood draw shall not be performed 

while the subject is in a standing position.

C. Equipment

1. Needles used shall be sterile, single use items, and all other items 

used shall be clinically clean. Phlebotomists are responsible for 

ensuring that such supplies are available prior to the venipuncture. 

Evacuated Tube System (ETS) tube holders/hubs shall only be used 

once and shall be visually determined to be clean prior to use.

2. Sharps shall be directly disposed into the sharps container; 

other contaminants shall be disposed of in biohazard waste 

bags.

D. Protective Procedures

1. If there is a significant biological contamination, such as blood or 

other contaminates, then the phlebotomist shall cleanse the area with 

an OSHA-approved disinfectant.

2. The phlebotomist shall follow proper hand washing/sanitizing 

procedures prior to and after the procedure. Visible dirt or debris on 

hands requires hand washing. Otherwise, non-ethyl alcohol hand 

sanitizer shall be used.

3. The phlebotomist shall wear gloves and personal protective 

equipment (PPE) during the venipuncture.

4. A new pair of gloves shall be used for each suspect and removed when 

the procedure is completed. Nonsterile, disposable latex, vinyl, or 

polyethylene examination gloves are acceptable.

5. Other PPEs such as face shields or lab coats are at the discretion of 

the phlebotomist and may be used.
E-17

VI. Sharps Safety and Disposal

In the course of conducting a blood draw, the phlebotomist will handle needle sharps, 

blood tube holders, and other biohazard material. The sharps containers that contain 

used biohazard materials shall be submitted to [IDENTIFY WHERE THEY WILL 

BE SUBMITTED] to be handled and disposed of appropriately. OSHA requirements 

and the guidelines identified in this manual shall be followed. See the Centers for 

Disease Control’s website for additional information.

A. Sharps Safety and Disposal Procedures

Removing the needle from a used blood draw/phlebotomy device is rarely, if 

ever, necessary. Because such devices involve the use of double-ended 

needles, such removal exposes the employee to additional risk, as does the 

increased manipulation of the contaminated device. Contaminated needles and 

other contaminated sharps shall not be bent, recapped, removed, or reused for 

any purpose.

1. Blood tube holders, with needles attached, shall be discarded 

immediately into a sharps container after the device’s safety feature 

has been activated.

2. Blood tube holders, with needles attached, and other sharps should not 

be passed directly from hand to hand and handling should be kept to a 

minimum.

3. Dispose of syringes and needles intact. When the needle and blood 

tube holders are attached for the procedure, dispose of both together.

4. Needles shall not be bent or broken at any time.

5. Always dispose of sharps at the point of use in a suitable sharps 

container.

6. Needles shall not be re-sheathed.

7. Sharps containers shall not be filled above the manufacturer’s marked 

line.

8. Sharps containers shall be disposed of when the manufacturer’s 

marked line has been reached.

9. Sharps shall not be disposed of with other clinical waste.
E-18

B. Sharps Container Safety and Disposal Procedures

The used sharps containers have biohazard materials inside and shall be 

handled and disposed of in the appropriate manner.

1. The sharps container shall be locked and sealed according to 

the manufacturer’s instructions prior to transport for 

disposal.

2. The sharps container shall remain in an upright position. Do not invert 

or place a sharps container on its side; this may result in leakage of 

biological and hazardous waste.

3. Used sharps containers shall not be placed or sealed into any other 

container for transport. Do not place used sharps containers in 

yellow bags or other containers for disposal.

4. Damaged used sharps containers shall be placed in a large secure 

rigid container which is properly labeled.

5. Sharps containers shall be transported to [IDENTIFY 

LOCATION] for disposal.

6. In the case of emergency disposal of a sharps container, the container 

may be transported to a hospital, fire department, or other medical 

facility.

VII. Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure

All [agency/department] phlebotomists and employees with a risk of exposure to 

bloodborne pathogens shall follow the procedures in this manual in the event of an 

exposure (i.e., contact with human blood, human waste, or needle sticks). 

A. Communicable Disease Exposure

In the event an officer, phlebotomist or other employee is exposed to Human 

Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis C (HCV), Hepatitis B (HBV), or 

Tuberculosis (TB), immediate action shall be taken. When an employee is 

exposed to blood from a needle stick, or blood or bodily fluid comes into 

contact with mucous membranes or an open wound, contact a supervisor 

immediately to open a claim with [IDENTIFY CLAIM DEPARTMENT]. 

[IDENTIFY CLAIM DEPARTMENT] shall be contacted within 24 hours 

of exposure. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Treatment within 2

hours could limit infection.
E-19

B. Accidental Needle Stick

The following action is recommended in the event of an accidental needle stick 

injury:

1. Make the wound bleed, if possible.

2. Clean well with copious amounts of soap and running water.

3. Apply an occlusive dressing. An occlusive dressing is defined as 

a bandage or dressing that closes the wound and keeps it from 

the air.

4. Attempt to identify the source of the sharp.

5. Attempt to obtain sufficient information to identify the subject from 

whom the blood was drawn and the phlebotomist or the person that 

was exposed.

C. First Aid

Prompt medical advice and care is critical as soon as possible after exposure. 

The person exposed and the immediate supervisor shall ensure that advice on 

first aid is sought and the appropriate documentation is completed. 

[DESCRIBE AGENCY/DEPARTMENT STANDARDS FOR INJURY 

REPORTING]

D. Collection of Blood for Disease Testing

If a subject assaults an officer, phlebotomist, or other individual, during the 

blood draw procedure and/or there is the transfer of bodily fluid or bodily fluid 

contact from a subject to the trooper, phlebotomist or other individual, a 

phlebotomist shall attempt to obtain blood for the purpose of testing for 

communicable disease pursuant to [IDENTIFY STATE STATUTE]

1. The blood obtained for this purpose shall be either from a court order 

or a voluntary draw. Applicable policy and procedure shall be 

followed in obtaining a court order. 

VIII. Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program Coordinator

[Agency/Department]’s Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program shall have a 

designated person responsible for the coordination of the program statewide. 

This person shall be a qualified phlebotomist.
E-20

A. Responsibilities

The Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program Coordinator duties shall include:

1. Teaching.

2. Providing phlebotomists with information regarding [the 

Agency/Department]’s phlebotomy policies and procedures, 

case law, and other information essential to the program.

3. Identifying qualified department phlebotomists as 

instructors or instructional assistance.

4. Scheduling instructors and students.

5. Identifying funding sources.

6. Acting as liaison between phlebotomy school faculty, [the 

Agency/Department], and the State Forensic Phlebotomy Program 

Coordinator.

7. Maintaining a file for each department phlebotomist.

8. Retaining a copy (pink) of the Phlebotomy Blood Draw Report 

performed by each department phlebotomist.

9. Maintaining a list of essential equipment for the program and the 

authorized vendors for that equipment or ensuring that such 

equipment is available from a secondary source.

10. Obtaining funding for training, equipment, and supply expenditures 

for the Department Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program.

11. Designating assistant phlebotomy coordinators.

B. Phlebotomy Equipment, Supplies, and Forms

Medical supplies and associated equipment for the Law Enforcement 

Phlebotomy Program are requisitioned from authorized vendors as needed. 

Forms, medical supplies, and associated equipment are available through the 

[Agency/Department] Phlebotomy Coordinator.
E-21

C. Assistant Phlebotomy Coordinators

In order to maintain contact with agency/department phlebotomists across the 

State, the Department Phlebotomy Coordinator identifies potential assistant 

phlebotomy coordinators, and with the concurrence of management, appoints 

assistant phlebotomy coordinators as needed.

1. The assistant phlebotomy coordinators are responsible for 

coordination of initial phlebotomy training and refresher training in 

their respective areas.

2. The assistant phlebotomy coordinators shall report to the 

[Agency/Department] Phlebotomy Coordinator, who shall retain 

overall responsibility for the program statewide.
DOT HS 812 705

March 2019

14222-032819-v1