Final answer:
Phlebotomists avoid the wrist when drawing blood due to the presence of delicate veins and arteries, the risk of nerve damage, and the potential for pain and injury. Instead, they typically choose to draw blood from surface veins in the arm.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phlebotomists often avoid the wrist when drawing blood because there are several major veins and arteries in the wrist area that can be easily damaged. For example, there are the radial and ulnar veins and the median antebrachial vein that drain the hand and digits. These vessels are delicate and can be difficult to access without causing pain or injury to the patient.
Additionally, the wrist is a sensitive area with a lot of nerves and tendons. Inserting a needle in the wrist can be more painful for the patient and may result in nerve damage or affect the functionality of the hand and wrist.
Instead, phlebotomists typically choose to draw blood from surface veins in the arm, such as the cephalic vein in the forearm or the basilic vein in the upper arm. These veins are easier to access and have a lower risk of complications compared to the wrist area.