anstechen

Anstechen is a German verb that means to prick or puncture a surface with a pointed instrument, typically a needle. The term is used for intentional puncturing, such as inserting a needle into skin to draw blood, administer medication, or create an access point for procedures. In everyday language it can also describe puncturing other surfaces to form a hole or opening.

Etymology and form: Anstechen is formed from the prefix an- added to stechen (to stab or pierce). It is a separable verb, and the past participle is angestochen (e.g., eine Vene angestochen).

Usage: In medical contexts, anstechen often appears in descriptions of venipuncture or injections, though more specific terms like Punktion, Venipunktur, or Blutabnahme are common. The expression emphasizes the action of creating an entry point with a sharp instrument, rather than the broader result of the procedure.

See also: Punktion, Venipunktur, Blutabnahme, Nadelstich.