Final answer:
In phlebotomy on elderly patients, concerns involve their thinner skin, likelihood of sclerosis, and the tendency of veins to roll. Muscle size is not typically a concern affecting puncture angle during phlebotomy procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phlebotomy procedures on geriatric patients present unique challenges due to age-related changes in their physiology. Options A, C, and D are indeed concerns when performing phlebotomy on elderly patients. Elderly patients' skin may be thinner, which is a concern because it can be more fragile and prone to tearing. Elderly patients' skin has a greater tendency to sclerosis, which can make punctures more difficult, and elderly patients' veins may tend to roll more than younger patients', requiring additional skill to achieve a successful venipuncture. However, Option B, concerning the adjustment of puncture angle due to smaller muscles, is not specifically related to phlebotomy challenges in the elderly, as muscle size does not typically impact the angle of blood vessel puncture.
The primary concerns in phlebotomy with an aging population involve recognizing and adapting to changes in the integumentary system and the overall physiology of geriatric patients to ensure a safe and effective blood draw. The integumentary system undergoes significant changes such as thinning of the skin and reduced elasticity due to decreased collagen and elastin production in the dermis. Additionally, diminished muscle mass can influence the general appearance of the skin but is not a direct factor in adjusting the puncture angle during phlebotomy procedures.