Final answer:
Option D (20-22) is the correct gauge range for venipuncture needles, which balances the need for adequate blood flow for testing with minimal patient discomfort. Option D.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct gauge range for venipuncture needles is typically 20-22. Gauge refers to the thickness of the needle: the higher the number, the thinner the needle.
A 20-22 gauge needle is commonly used because it is large enough to allow sufficient blood flow for most laboratory tests while being small enough to minimize patient discomfort.
Needles smaller than 20 gauge are often used for pediatric patients or for those with difficult veins, whereas larger needles (smaller gauge number) could be used for blood donation or for patients with larger veins.
Venipuncture is a procedure that requires a balance between patient comfort and the need to obtain an adequate blood sample.
Thus, choosing the correct needle gauge is essential for a successful and minimally invasive procedure.
Hence, the right answer is option D.