Venipunctie

Venipuncture, also known as phlebotomy, is the technique of obtaining blood from a vein for laboratory testing, transfusion preparation, or therapeutic procedures. It involves inserting a needle into a suitable vein and collecting blood into collection tubes, usually under sterile conditions. The procedure is performed by trained healthcare professionals, such as phlebotomists, nurses, or physicians.

Common sites include the median cubital vein in the antecubital fossa, which is preferred for its size and accessibility; the cephalic and basilic veins may be used if necessary. In children, elderly patients, or cases of difficult venous access, alternative sites or smaller needles (such as butterfly sets) may be employed.

Equipment includes an antiseptic, tourniquet, gloves, sterile needles (typically 21–23 gauge for adults), collection tubes with additives (such as EDTA or citrate), a needle holder, and a sharps container. The patient is positioned comfortably, the site is cleaned, and informed consent is confirmed. The tourniquet is applied to distend the vein.

The needle is inserted bevel up at a shallow angle; once blood appears in the hub, tubes are attached in sequence to fill specified volumes by vacuum. After collection, the needle is withdrawn, and pressure is applied with gauze until bleeding stops; a bandage is placed. Tubes are labeled promptly and sent to the laboratory with standard handling instructions.

Risks and aftercare: common complications include brief discomfort, bruising, hematoma, infection, or fainting. Rarely, nerve or arterial injury or persistent bleeding can occur. Most people tolerate venipuncture well. Afterward, keep the site clean and dry, watch for signs of infection, and contact care if swelling, redness, fever, or numbness develops.