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

Why is it important to choose the correct gauge needle for a venipuncture?

1. To ensure minimal patient pain

2. To optimize blood collection volume

3. To prevent hemolysis of the sample

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Choosing the correct gauge needle for a venipuncture is crucial for several reasons, all of which contribute to the quality of the procedure and the resulting blood sample. Using an appropriately sized needle minimizes patient pain. Larger gauge needles can cause more trauma to the vascular tissue, while smaller gauge needles may not adequately penetrate the vein, resulting in additional attempts or discomfort. Selecting the correct gauge helps keep the procedure as comfortable as possible for the patient. In addition to patient comfort, gauge selection also plays a significant role in optimizing blood collection volume. A needle that is too small may restrict the flow of blood and result in a longer collection time or insufficient volume, potentially leading to an inadequate sample for testing. Choosing the right gauge ensures a smooth and efficient collection process. Preventing hemolysis of the sample is another critical factor. Hemolysis, the destruction of red blood cells, can occur if the blood is drawn too forcefully or through a needle that is too small, as this can create turbulence and shear forces that damage the cells. Using the correct gauge needle helps to minimize these risks, ensuring that the blood is collected in an intact state, which is essential for accurate laboratory analysis. Considering all of these factors, the best practice in venipunct