Collection ProceduresQuestion 30 of 100
How should the needle be positioned as it enters the skin during venipuncture?
a.Bevel down and against the direction of blood flow
b.Bevel up and in line with the vein, pointing toward the heart
c.Bevel sideways at 90 degrees to the vein
d.Bevel up but angled across the vein at 45 degrees
Explanation
The bevel faces up and follows the long axis of the vein so the sharpest point enters first and the opening sits inside the lumen. Bevel-down entry can occlude the opening against the vein wall and stop flow. Crossing the vein at a steep or perpendicular angle increases the chance of going through the far wall and causing a hematoma.
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