VIDEO: Beacon Health offering needle-free blood draws for trypanophobic patients

SOUTH BEND, Ind. --  Beacon Health System announce on Thursday that it is now offering comprehensive needle-free blood draws that gives all patients relief from repeated needle sticks during hospital stays.

Memorial Hospital's use of what is known as PIVO Pro technology offers patients the option of a "One-Stick Patient Experience."

"The hospital has expanded this technology beyond standard blood draws to include blood culture collections in the emergency room, making Memorial the second hospital in the nation to offer this comprehensive implementation," a Beacon spokesperson said.

Currently, most blood draws at Memorial Hospital are now done with the needle-free system.

"Memorial Hospital is committed to putting patients first in everything we do," said Lauren Nygaard, BSN, RN, 9 South Manager at Memorial Hospital.

"By being the first in Indiana to invest in this progressive, needle-free method of blood collection for both routine draws and blood cultures, we are taking meaningful action in our commitment to our patients."

Health officials say the technology allows Memorial to use a patient's existing IV line for high-quality blood draws and blood culture collections.

"While patients still require an initial IV placement, this eliminates most additional needle sticks during their stay," a spokesperson said.

"The system also benefits healthcare staff by reducing blood exposure and needlestick injuries, with nurses, nursing assistants and mental health technicians trained to use it across patient care areas."

Statistically, blood draws are one of the most common hospital procedures, and more than half of Americans report some fear of needles.

"Patients have expressed relief and thankfulness for reduced discomfort, while healthcare staff report feeling better about the patient care they provide to patients," a spokesperson said.