Collection ProceduresQuestion 19 of 100
Why is the basilic vein the last antecubital choice for venipuncture?
a.The brachial artery and median nerve lie close beneath it
b.It collapses under vacuum more easily than other veins
c.It contains more valves than any other arm vein
d.It is too small to accommodate a 21 gauge needle
Explanation
The basilic vein sits on the medial side of the antecubital fossa directly over the brachial artery and near the median nerve, so puncture there carries the highest risk of arterial nicking and nerve injury. Size, collapse tendency and valve count are not the deciding factors. When the basilic vein must be used, the needle is anchored carefully and the patient is monitored for shooting pain.
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