Question

When performing venipuncture on fragile, easy-to-collapse veins, the appropriate equipment selection includes:

1. **Butterfly Needle (Winged Infusion Set):** A butterfly needle, also known as a winged infusion set, is a suitable choice for accessing fragile veins. It is designed with a smaller gauge (typically 23 to 25 gauge) and has flexible wings that allow for better control during insertion. The smaller gauge reduces the risk of trauma to fragile veins.

2. **Smaller Needle:** Choose a smaller needle gauge (higher number) to minimize trauma to the vein. A smaller needle is less likely to cause vein collapse or damage.

3. **Vacutainer Holder:** Using a vacutainer holder or adapter can help stabilize the needle in the vein, reducing the risk of movement or displacement during blood collection.

4. **Tourniquet:** Apply the tourniquet gently and for a shorter duration to avoid excessive pressure on the fragile veins. This can help maintain vein integrity.

5. **Warm Compress:** A warm compress or warm towel applied to the area before venipuncture can help dilate and make veins more visible and easier to access.

6. **Gentle Technique:** Use a gentle and steady technique during venipuncture to minimize the risk of causing damage or collapsing the vein.

Answer 1

In performing venipuncture on fragile veins, use a Butterfly Needle, smaller needle gauge, Vacutainer Holder, apply the tourniquet gently, consider a warm compress, and employ a gentle technique to minimize trauma and ensure vein integrity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proper Equipment Selection for Venipuncture on Fragile Veins

When performing a venipuncture on fragile, easy-to-collapse veins, several pieces of equipment and technique considerations are recommended to ensure patient safety and sample integrity. Firstly, a Butterfly Needle or a winged infusion set, which usually has a smaller gauge (23 to 25 gauge), should be used to minimize trauma to the vein. The structure of a butterfly needle provides better control during insertion. Secondly, selecting a Smaller Needle gauge (higher number) is crucial to reduce the possibility of vein collapse. A Vacutainer Holder helps stabilize the needle, thereby preventing movement that can result in vein damage. Careful application of a Tourniquet is important; it should be gentle and brief to maintain vein integrity without applying excessive pressure. Additionally, a warm compress may be utilized to dilate the veins, making them more visible and accessible. Lastly, employing a gentle technique throughout the venipuncture procedure is vital to avoid damaging the fragile veins.

Understanding the properties of venules and veins is essential in this context. Venules, being small veins with diminished blood pressure compared to arteries, join capillaries and move blood with less resistance because of their larger lumens and thinner walls. Veins, which conduct blood back to the heart, are equipped with valves that assist in the unidirectional flow of blood, which is especially important for maintaining efficient circulation in the extremities where blood pressure is lower.