| A | B |
|---|
| What is venipuncture? | The process of puncturing a vein to obtain blood for diagnostic testing. |
| What vein is most commonly used for venipuncture? | Median cubital vein. |
| Name two other veins commonly used for venipuncture | Cephalic vein and basilic vein. |
| What is the preferred site for venipuncture? | The antecubital fossa (inner elbow). |
| What angle should the needle be inserted for venipuncture? | 15–30 degrees. |
| What equipment is required for venipuncture? | Tourniquet, needle, collection tube, alcohol swab, gauze, gloves, sharps container. |
| What is the purpose of the tourniquet? | To temporarily restrict venous blood flow and make veins more prominent. |
| How long should a tourniquet be left on? | No more than 1 minute. |
| What should you do if you cannot find a vein in the antecubital fossa? | Try the hand veins or forearm veins (last resort). |
| What are common complications of venipuncture? | Hematoma, hemoconcentration, phlebitis, infection, nerve injury, fainting. |
| What should you do if a hematoma develops during venipuncture? | Stop immediately, apply pressure, and ice if needed. |
| What is hemoconcentration? | Increase in concentration of blood components due to prolonged tourniquet use. |
| What should the patient do after venipuncture? | Apply pressure for 1–2 minutes and avoid heavy lifting with that arm for several hours. |
