Venipuncture

File:Intravenous catheter.jpg

Intravenous catheter

Venipuncture is a medical procedure primarily performed by phlebotomists, nurses, and medical laboratory scientists to obtain a blood sample from a patient for laboratory testing. The procedure is also used to administer intravenous therapies.

Procedure

The venipuncture procedure is performed using a hypodermic needle, a hollow needle commonly used with a syringe to inject substances into the body or extract fluids from it. The needle is inserted into a vein, typically in the arm, and blood is drawn into a vacuum-sealed vial for testing.

Uses

Venipuncture is most commonly used to collect blood samples for lab testing. These tests can help diagnose a variety of conditions, including anemia, infection, leukemia, and diabetes. It can also be used to administer intravenous therapies such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, and blood transfusions.

Risks and Complications

While venipuncture is generally a safe procedure, there are potential risks and complications. These include bruising, infection, phlebitis (inflammation of the vein), hematoma (a pooling of blood outside of the blood vessels), and fainting.

See Also

• Phlebotomy
• Blood test
• Intravenous therapy

References

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