A controlled apparatus for withdrawing fluids from a patient or for administering medication to a patient, or both, which controlled apparatus may be remotely and/or automatically controlled. The apparatus includes a manifold and cannula for connecting the manifold to a patient, one or more syringes connected to the manifold, a pump for pumping liquid into and out of the manifold and a controller for controlling the operation of the syringes and the pump. A method of using the apparatus is also provided.The controlled apparatus is especially useful for the programmed withdrawal of blood from a blood vessel of a patient.