Question

Using a collection needle with a wider lumen reduces the chance that _______ will occur.

A) Hemolysis
B) Clotting
C) Infection
D) Hematoma

Answer 1

A wider lumen in a collection needle lowers the risk of hemolysis, which is the rupturing of red blood cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Using a collection needle with a wider lumen reduces the chance that hemolysis will occur. Hemolysis is the destruction of red blood cells, which can occur if the needle used during a blood draw is too small, causing the cells to rupture as they pass through the needle. A wider lumen lessens the pressure on the cells, thus decreasing the risk of hemolysis. On the other hand, conditions such as bubo formation are associated with lymphadenitis, and inflammation of blood vessels is referred to as vasculitis. These conditions are unrelated to the use of different needle sizes during blood collection.