Question

You are in the process of collecting a specimen by venipuncture. You hear a hissing sound then there is a spurt of blood into the tube, the blood flow stops. What most likely happened?

1) The needle was not inserted properly
2) The tube was not properly connected to the needle
3) The blood clot in the tube
4) The blood pressure was too low

Answer 1

During venipuncture, a hissing sound followed by a spurt of blood and then cessation suggests the blood specimen tube was not properly connected to the needle, causing a loss of vacuum or poor connection.

Step-by-step explanation:

If there was a hissing sound followed by a spurt of blood that then stops during a venipuncture, it is most likely due to the blood specimen tube not being properly connected to the needle. A proper connection would ensure a consistent flow of blood into the tube. When collecting blood, any interruption in the flow, such as a hissing sound followed by a spurt and then cessation, suggests a loss of vacuum or a poor connection between the tube and the needle that prevents further collection. It's essential for healthcare professionals to properly attach the blood collection tube to the needle to avoid such issues.