Final answer:
An arteriovenous (AV) shunt is a vessel that connects an arteriole to a venule, bypassing the capillaries. When drawing blood from a patient with an AV shunt, it is important to avoid puncturing the shunt.
Step-by-step explanation:
An arteriovenous (AV) shunt is a short vessel that connects an arteriole directly to a venule, bypassing the capillary beds. It allows blood to flow directly from the arterial to the venous circulation without passing through the capillaries.
When drawing blood from a patient with an AV shunt, it is important to avoid puncturing the shunt, as this can cause complications. The preferred method is to choose a different site for blood collection, such as the opposite arm, or to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on the best approach.