Common venipuncture complications and special draw considerations for pediatric and geriatric patients.
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- What is a hematoma in venipuncture?
- A swelling caused by blood leaking into the tissue around the puncture site.
- What is the most common complication of venipuncture?
- Hematoma formation.
- If a hematoma begins forming during a draw, what should you do immediately?
- Release the tourniquet, remove the needle, and apply direct pressure.
- What causes hemoconcentration during venipuncture?
- Leaving the tourniquet on too long, causing fluid to leave the vessel while cells and large molecules stay behind.
- The tourniquet should not be left on the arm for longer than ____.
- one minute
- What is hemolysis in a blood specimen?
- Rupture of red blood cells that releases hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid.
- What needle-related error during a draw can cause hemolysis?
- Using a needle gauge that is too small for the draw.
- What is syncope?
- A sudden, temporary loss of consciousness, also called fainting.
- What is the first action if a patient shows signs of fainting during a draw?
- Stop the draw and prevent the patient from falling or getting injured.
- What are petechiae?
- Tiny red spots on the skin caused by minor capillary bleeding under the skin.
- What might the presence of petechiae before a draw indicate?
- A possible bleeding or clotting disorder.
- What can cause nerve injury during venipuncture?
- Inserting the needle too deeply or at the wrong angle, striking a nerve.
- What symptom during needle insertion suggests possible nerve involvement?
- Sudden sharp, shooting pain or tingling radiating down the arm.
- What should a phlebotomist do if a patient reports sharp shooting pain during needle insertion?
- Stop the draw and remove the needle immediately.
- What is a sclerosed vein?
- A vein that has become hardened and scarred, often from repeated punctures.