Question

A phlebotomy technician is performing a dorsal venipuncture with the needle at a 15° angle, resulting in slow blood flow and the development of a

hematoma. Which of the following should the technician identify as the cause of the hematoma?
Needle beside the vein
Needle at too shallow of an angle
Needle bevel opening in the vein
Needle completely through the vein

Answer 1

The hematoma in the given scenario is caused by the needle being at too shallow of an angle, resulting in slow blood flow.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cause of the hematoma in the given scenario is that the needle was at too shallow of an angle. When performing a venipuncture, it is important for the phlebotomy technician to insert the needle at the correct angle to ensure proper blood flow and minimize complications. In this case, the 15° angle is not sufficient to penetrate the vein properly, leading to slow blood flow and the formation of a hematoma.

Learn more about Venipuncture complications