An older adult patient who regularly comes to the clinic is known to have difficult veins that are more likely to roll or collapse with needle insertion during phlebotomy procedures. Which venipuncture method would the medical assistant avoid?
A Butterfly
B Capillary stick
Evacuated tube
D Syringe
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Butterfly.
A butterfly needle is typically used for venipuncture procedures where more precision is required, such as in small or fragile veins. It has two flexible “wings” that allow the medical professional to stabilize the needle during insertion. However, it may not be the best choice for patients with difficult veins that are prone to rolling or collapsing. This is because butterfly needles are more sensitive to vein movement and may not provide the necessary stability to maintain a secure insertion in these situations.
For older adults or patients with veins that are likely to roll or collapse, a Syringe method (option D) might be a better option. This technique allows for more control over the pressure applied to the vein, and the syringe itself can be used to create a gentle vacuum, which helps to keep the vein from collapsing during blood draw. Syringes are also often used in situations where veins are harder to access, as they allow for more careful manipulation.
A Capillary stick (option B) might also be an alternative for patients with difficult veins. This method involves collecting blood from a small capillary, typically from the fingertip or heel. It is often used for smaller volumes of blood and is less invasive than a full venipuncture, making it suitable for situations where veins are not easily accessible.
The Evacuated tube (option C) method is commonly used for blood collection in a variety of patients, including those with difficult veins. It works by creating a vacuum to draw blood into the tube, which can reduce the chances of vein collapse during collection. However, it still requires proper technique to avoid complications.
In conclusion, the Butterfly needle should be avoided for patients with veins that tend to roll or collapse, as it requires more delicate handling and can be less effective in such cases.