Question

For an older adult client, an angle of ___ is preferable because veins are closer to the skin surface as aging diminishes subcutaneous tissue.

a) 15 degrees
b) 30 degrees
c) 45 degrees
d) 90 degrees

Answer 1

The preferable angle for venipuncture in an older adult client is 15 degrees because veins are closer to the surface as subcutaneous tissue diminishes with age.

Step-by-step explanation:

For an older adult client, an angle of 15 degrees is preferable for venipuncture because veins are closer to the skin surface as aging diminishes subcutaneous tissue. This reduced angle minimizes the risk of passing through the vein or causing the patient discomfort. When inserting a needle for venous access in older adults, a gentler angle ensures that the needle enters the vein more easily due to the decreased elasticity and volume of subcutaneous tissue commonly seen with aging.