American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

When performing a venipuncture on a middle-aged patient with good veins, which gauge needle is typically recommended?

1. 18

2. 21

3. 23

4. 25

The correct answer is: 21

A 21-gauge needle is typically recommended for venipuncture in a middle-aged patient with good veins. The choice of needle gauge is crucial because it balances the need for adequate blood flow with patient comfort. A 21-gauge needle is large enough to allow for a sufficient blood draw without causing excessive trauma to the vein. The gauge indicates the thickness of the needle, with lower numbers representing larger diameters. Venipuncture is often performed to obtain blood for tests, and a 21-gauge needle provides a good compromise; it is not overly large, which can cause discomfort, but is sufficiently wide to facilitate the efficient collection of blood. In addition, venipuncture using a 21-gauge needle minimizes the risk of hemolysis, which can occur with smaller gauge needles due to the faster flow rates or pressure differences. Furthermore, this gauge is commonly used in clinical practice, making it a standard choice for healthcare professionals. Other options, such as larger needles (like the 18-gauge) may be uncomfortable for the patient and are generally reserved for specific situations like blood donation or intravenous fluids, while smaller needles (such as the 23-gauge or 25-gauge) might not be capable