why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture

Hematoma A venipuncture should not be performed on a hematoma. WebSelect the appropriate vein for venipuncture. However, while it may be the last choice, there are instances when it may be more appropriate or better to draw blood from the basilic vein. WebThe median cubital vein is routinely used for venipuncture (taking blood) and as a site for an intravenous cannula. The basilic vein is the last choice for venipuncture. Place a sheathed needle or butterfly on the syringe. The median cubital vein is the preferred vein for phlebotomy because it is usually larger than the other veins and more stationary. NOTE: When using a winged blood collection set for venipuncture and a coagulation tube is the first tube needed, first draw a discard tube (plain red top or light blue top). Blood is usually drawn using the veins of the arm, although the hand veins may also be used. WebThe median cubital and cephalic veins are preferred for blood sampling, but other arm and hand veins may be used. There is no easy way to draw blood. The practice of phlebotomy is not something that can strictly be learned from watching videos or reading a how-to guide but something that must be practiced repeatedly in a controlled environment with other trained professionals. 4. If it is deeper in the arm it may take a little longer to feel and find it. Use only mild tension when applying the tourniquet; it is a venous, not an arterial, tourniquet. If applying povidone-iodine, wipe it off with alcohol and allow the alcohol to dry. WebThe best vein for drawing blood is the median cubital vein. If an IV is in place, samples may be obtained below but NEVER above the IV site. Hand veins may be used if it is not possible to use the antecubital veins. In such cases, the phlebotomist cant locate the median cubital or cephalic vein but the basilic vein is easier to find. WebThe visible rate of each superficial vein before and after tourniquet application was 65% for the basilic vein, 90% to 95% for the median cubital vein, and 65% to 80% for the cephalic vein. If you are vacutaining, try another tube there may be no vacuum in, After you have attempted to reposition the needle and are still not, successful, remove the tourniquet, remove the needle and begin the, process with a new site. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders. It is closer to the brachial artery and median nerve making it more likely that a puncture could lead to an injury of one of those structures. The cephalic vein is found on the lateral, or outside, of the arm. How to find the vein? How to find the vein? CLSI document H3-A6. Commonly referred to as the antecubital or the AC it can be found in the crevice of the elbow between the median cephalic and the median basilic vein. Remove plastic cap over needle and hold bevel up. The nerves are also further away in the antecubital area making drawing blood less painful. A lot of fat tissue in the arm area or at the back of the hand makes it difficult to feel a vein. At no time may phlebotomists perform venipuncture on an artery. Traction may not be necessary for larger veins of the forearm or antecubital fossa. Median cubital vein: want to learn more about it? Philadelphia, PA: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier. Reapply the tourniquet proximal to the selected insertion site. venipuncture site by palpating with the gloved index finger. Adequate, pressure should be applied to stop the bleeding once the phlebotomy is, complete. (function() { 2. Ask the patient to apply pressure to the gauze for at least 2 minutes. There are also fewer nerve endings surrounding this vein making venipuncture less painful at The discard tube does not need to be filled completely. Test your knowledge on the main veins of the upper limb in this quiz. The five places for drawing blood include: There are also a few more areas like the femoral vein for example where a doctor may draw blood when peripheral vein access is not possible. For novice phlebotomists, this vein is the first choice because it is close to the skins surface and tends not to roll when punctured. It is more difficult to find and access and has more nerves near it making it Ultrasound guidance How To Do Peripheral Vein Cannulation, Ultrasound-Guided Ultrasound-guided peripheral venous cannulation uses real-time (dynamic) ultrasound to guide venipuncture and a catheter-over-needle technique to place a peripheral intravenous catheter (cannula) read more , when equipment and trained personnel are available, can facilitate blood sampling from deep, nonpalpable veins. Note that the rubber tops of blood-culture bottles must be properly disinfected prior to introducing the blood sample (eg, by scrubbing each top with separate 70% alcohol wipes for 30 seconds and allowing it to air-dry). Commonly referred to as the antecubital or the AC it can be found in the crevice of the elbow between the median cephalic and the median basilic vein. Usually if these veins are to be used, the physician will draw the blood. 3. Venipuncture is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Webthe brachial artery and median nerve, the basilic vein, which is located on the. 5. Gloves are to be discarded in the appropriate container immediately after the phlebotomy procedure. C. Pull the skin tight with your thumb or index finger just below the puncture site. Some patients are easier than others because of the prominence of their veins. Extensive scarring or healed burn areas should be avoided. Over time and with several repeated punctures, significant amounts of scar tissue builds up. Individually packaged 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes. In fact, the majority of intensive care units require their nurses to possess these skills. To learn more about the veins of the upper limb, explore our articles, quizzes, video tutorials and labelled diagrams. After blood has been added to a tube, gently invert the tube 6 to 8 times to mix the contents; do not shake the tubes. Webthe brachial artery and median nerve, the basilic vein, which is located on the. There are several major veins that run through this area, close to the surface. Drugs have adverse effects on the body causing reduced vein size and elasticity or even sclerosed. Small veins can be hard to locate and feel. The median cubital creates less bruising and pain than other draw sites. Caution must be taken to avoid arterial puncture. Immediately apply pressure. It has the tendency to roll sometimes so care must be taken to anchor it when inserting the needle. Copyright 2023 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. If you used a needle and syringe, ask, your patient or a parent to apply pressure to the site so that you can fill, your tubes. D. Holding the needle in line with the vein, use a quick, small thrust to penetrate the skin and enter the vein in one smooth motion. All other items used for the procedure must be disposed of according to proper biohazardous waste disposal policy. Although there is a considerable amount of variation, the median cubital vein often receives the median antebrachial vein as its major tributary. Prep the venipuncture site by cleansing the area with an alcohol prep pad for 30 seconds and allow to air dry for 30 seconds. I'm Kadia. Adapted from Phlebotomy for Nurses and. Do not touch the puncture site after cleaning. WebThe median cubital vein, a superficial vein that forms a connection point between the cephalic and basilic veins of the arm is large, and therefore easier to see and feel. WebVenipuncture (sometimes referred to as venapuncture, venepuncture or even venu puncture) is the collection of blood from a vein which is usually done for laboratory testing. In the above situations, use another site (eg, the opposite arm) for venipuncture. Over time and with several repeated punctures, significant amounts of scar tissue builds up. Phlebotomists are specially trained in this technique and are able to procure blood from several different veins in the body. Follow, the order of draw listed here for both syringes (utilizing the blood transfer device), 2. Ernst, Dennis J. Each time a vein is accessed with a needle, scar tissue forms as part of the body's healing process. See below. Drawing blood from a patient can be a daunting task but it also is a necessity for nurses. Refer to the specific test in the online directory for handling and storage requirements. The World Health Organizations (WHO) best practice guidelines for blood draws include the following: The overall purpose of establishing the guidelines is to. If blind percutaneous placement read more . The cephalic vein is the second choice usually, since it is fairly well anchored. 4. It is usually easy to access and is more stable. Yellow Top (plasma and cells): Contains ACD solution A or B. Insert the beveled needle at a 30-degree angle into the vessel. This vein penetrates the fascial roof of the cubital fossa to anastomose with a brachial vein, forming a connection between the superficial and deep venous systems of the upper limb. Sometimes venipuncture is performed on hand veins when the veins in the antecubital fossa are not appropriate. Sharps Disposal Container. True An evacuated glass tube with a lavender stopper contains EDTA. The three most commonly used veins for drawing blood are the median cubital, the cephalic, and the basilic veins. Make sure the, needle fully penetrates the upper-most wall of the vein; partial penetration, may allow blood to leak into the tissue surrounding the vein. Use to remove results with certain terms 3. Of these, the median cubital vein is usually the vein of choice for phlebotomy: It is typically more stable (less likely to roll), it lies more superficially, and the skin overlying it is less sensitive than the skin overlying the other veins. If the vein is close to the surface, you should find it easily. [5] It becomes prominent when pressure is applied upstream, which makes needle insertion easier. Used primarily for hematology and blood bank testing. Coagulopathy is not a contraindication, but sites must be compressed for a longer time after venipuncture. The vacuum tubes are designed to draw a predetermined volume of blood. Read more. Brought to you by Merck & Co, Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA (known as MSD outside the US and Canada) dedicated to using leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. Procedures for the Collection of Diagnostic Blood Specimens by. Some institutions have kits with all of the needed supplies while others will require the nurses to gather them individually. It is large and near the skins surface, making it easier for phlebotomists to see before anchoring the vein. This order of draw should be followed whenever multiple tubes are drawn during a single venipuncture. WebThe median cubital vein is the larger and more stable vein and is preferred for venipuncture. Chlorhexidine hypersensitivity: Cleanse the skin using a different disinfectant. Transfer blood drawn into the appropriate tubes as soon as possible using a Blood Transfer Device, as a delay could cause improper coagulation. 2. Identify the patient, two forms of active identification are required. If using a needle, and syringe, avoid drawing the plunger back too forcefully. Drake, R., Vogl, W., Mitchell, A. Position the patient and hyperextend the patients arm. Palpation of phlebotomy site may be performed without gloves providing the skin is not broken. Manage Settings If a vein cant be found in the antecubital area, then look at the back of the hand or forearm. Clean the puncture site by making a smooth circular pass over the site with the 70%alcohol pad, moving in an outward spiral from the zone of penetration. E. Holding the hub securely, insert the first vacutainer tube following proper order of draw into the large end of the hub penetrating the stopper. The Supervisor should be called to assess the patient. Antecubital fossa. Instead, withdraw the needle partway before changing the angle and direction of insertion. minutes and then reapplied before performing the venipuncture. WebThe median cubital vein is routinely used for venipuncture (taking blood) and as a site for an intravenous cannula. Position the patient with the arm extended to form a straight-line form shoulder to wrist. Clinical Significance. Activate the safety device and properly dispose of the vacutainer holder with needle attached into a sharps container. Learn more about the MSD Manuals and our commitment to. 5. Preventing dizziness or fainting and potential follow-up injuries due to a, fall: Be sure patient is seated in an appropriate draw chair and or lying in. There are several causes for hard-to-find veins. [5] It becomes prominent when pressure is applied upstream, which makes needle insertion easier. Have the patient or an assistant continue to apply pressure to the site. Do not inject blood into vacuum collection tubes; allow the vacuum to draw the blood into the tube. Fear of needles. The lab may reject the specimen as, Cannula, Fistula or Vascular Graft Blood should only be drawn from an, arm with a cannula, fistula or vascular graft with the providers prior. arm to start bleeding when the arm is straightened out. Get the latest on all things nursing by joining our email newsletter. This is to prevent cross contamination by the tube additives that could lead to erroneous results. Always remember to ask for help from seasoned nurses and seize opportunities to practice your skills. Preventing of infection: Follow proper infection control policies. WebWhy is the Median Cubital Vein Used the Most? } Risks associated with using this vein include penetration of Immediately apply slight pressure to the gauxe pad over the venipuncture site.. 12. If the needle had initially passed completely through the vein, a flash may now appear as you withdraw the needle tip back into the lumen. Closely monitor the arm to ensure that is is not applied to tight or for more than 2 minutes. When using vacuum tubes, push each tube fully into the tube holder, use care to avoid dislodging the needle from the vein. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Looking for a change beyond the bedside? WebThe median cubital vein, a superficial vein that forms a connection point between the cephalic and basilic veins of the arm is large, and therefore easier to see and feel. Intravenous therapy/Blood Transfusions If it is not possible to draw the. 6. arm vein. There read more ). The median cubital vein connects the cephalic and basilic veins, which are the two major superficial veins of the upper limb. Nurses and doctors will sometimes draw blood from the foot when there are no other options. Apply a band-aid or CoFlex to, the site. Last reviewed: November 23, 2022 WebThe median cubital vein, a superficial vein that forms a connection point between the cephalic and basilic veins of the arm is large, and therefore easier to see and feel. Place a gauze pad over the puncture site and quickly remove the needle. The least best is the basilic vein. They also may not be able to be used due to intravenous placement or injury. Most times it will be big and plump but the size will vary depending on each individual. opposite arm, then blood should be drawn from BELOW (distal to) the IV. All rights reserved. A. The median cubital vein is used the most for its accessibility. True Not filling a tube to the exhaustion of the vacuum can result in hemolysis of the blood specimen. The larger median cubital, basilic and cephalic veins are most frequently used, but other may be necessary and will become more prominent if the patient closes his fist tightly. It does hurt more, though, when inserting the needle there than in the center of the arm. Dispose of contaminated materials and needles in the designated hospital-approved containers. After identifying the site for the blood draw, gather the appropriate supplies needed. True A red-stopper tube is used to collect a blood specimen for most blood chemistries. Become a Part of the Nurse.org Community! Reasons for concern would include numbness, tingling, change of color to blue or white, and extreme pain. The blood is normally drawn from a vein on the top Terminate the procedure: Remove the tourniquet and the needle and apply pressure to the puncture site with a gauze pad (a minute or 2 is usually adequate unless the patient has a coagulopathy). if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'phlebotomistreport_com-leader-3','ezslot_10',171,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-phlebotomistreport_com-leader-3-0'); Other veins at the back of the hands or in the forearm can be used but the antecubital area is the first choice. Dont be discouraged if at first, you dont access the vein. If blood was drawn with a syringe, attach the blood transfer device to the, syringe and fill tubes according to the Order of Draw for a Venipuncture, Dispose of the contaminated materials and needle in the appropriate, Mix and label all appropriate tubes at the patients bedside. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Support the supinated forearm (or other chosen site) on a comfortable surface. Veins in the foot and ankle should be utilized only as a last resort. An important tip - take extra supplies into the patients room in case you need to attempt a second venipuncture. Excessive probing (uncalculated side-to-side. 6. Insert the needle proximally (ie, in the direction of venous blood flow), with the bevel facing up, along the midline of the vein at a shallow angle (about 10 to 30 degrees) to the skin. Alternative sites are the basilic, vein on the dorsum of the arm or dorsal hand veins. Veins on the underside of the wrist should be avoided. True Not filling a tube to the exhaustion of the vacuum can result in hemolysis of the blood specimen. For children, swab the site 3 times using only alcohol. [3] Standring, S. (2016). The median cubital vein is the first choice for venipuncture. Holding the needle in line with the vein, use a quick, small thrust to penetrate the skin and vein in one motion. WebSelect the appropriate vein for venipuncture. I would honestly say that Kenhub cut my study time in half. 2. On many persons arm it will be slightly rising above the skin surface. She has a varied background in both health care and education, having worked in several different hospitals and medical centers prior to teaching allied health classes. The wrist is a last resort for drawing blood. Select the collection site and proceed as routine phlebotomy. At no time may phlebotomists perform venipuncture on an artery. Once blood is seen in the tubing, connect the vacutainers or use a syringe to drawback. Ask the patient to state their name and date of birth. Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know about our daily giveaways from shoes to Patagonia gear, FIGS scrubs, cash, and more! Insert the beveled needle at a 30-degree angle into the vessel. These superficial veins lie within the subcutaneous tissue. mount_type: "" Once found, be sure to anchor it when inserting the needle. Wayne, PA: Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute; 2007. Skin-cleansing materials: Alcohol, chlorhexidine, or povidone-iodine swabs or wipes, Nonsterile gloves (sterile gloves if blood cultures are being obtained), Needle system (eg, needle and syringe, or needle and vacuum tube, typically 21-gauge needles for adults; 22- or 23-gauge for neonates, small children, and sometimes older patients), Blood-collection tubes and blood-culture bottles, as appropriate, Dressing materials (eg, tape, gauze, bandages), Vein-finder device (eg, infrared vein viewer, ultrasonography device), Topical anesthetic (standard for children): Needle-free lidocaine gas-injector, lidocaine-epinephrine-tetracaine mixture, or lidocaine-prilocaine cream. Once you have found it, take care in anchoring the vein to prevent rolling when you insert the needle to draw blood. As there is still a risk that the sample could be, contaminated, you must document that the specimen was drawn above, (proximal to) an IV site and how many minutes the IV was turned off, before the draw occurred. To access the external jugular vein, place the patient in Trendelenburg position with the head tilted slightly contralaterally. 5. 4. Butterfly needles attached to a syringe may be preferred for difficult venipuncture (eg, small veins in neonates, fragile veins in older people). However, we know that is not always the option we are presented with. If there is not an alternate vein to draw. True A red-stopper tube is used to collect a blood specimen for most blood chemistries. Go check it out here. Instruct the patient to make a, fist and hold it; do not have them pump their hand. The larger median cubital, basilic and cephalic veins are most frequently used, but other may be necessary and will become more prominent if the patient closes his fist tightly. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. The median cubital vein is used the most for its accessibility. If you cant find a vein in the antecubital area then go to the back of the hand or forearm and follow the same steps. Do not have patients make a fist or let their arm hang down during the blood sampling, because these maneuvers may cause various erroneous laboratory values (eg, increased potassium, lactate, phosphate). Commonly referred to as the antecubital or the AC it can be found in the crevice of the elbow between the median cephalic and the median basilic vein. Identify the patient using two patient identifiers as mandated by JCAHO. G. When blood flow stops, remove the tube by holding the hub securely and pulling the tube off the needle. When that happens it can be difficult to locate veins. Through a combination of revolutionary treatments and extraordinary patient experiences, our care does more than heal. Veins in the foot and ankle should be utilized only as a last resort. In doing so, this will enable students to learn basics prior to graduation. Avoid probing for the vein. The first step is to discuss with the patient what you will be doing and why as well as gather all the needed supplies. Begin to withdraw the blood sample and, when blood begins to flow, remove the tourniquet. Contaminated surfaces must be cleaned with freshly prepared 10% bleach solution. The basilic vein basically runs from the palm of the hand and up your arm on the side of the ulna. WebVenipuncture is also called phlebotomy, is a procedure in which a needle is used to take blood from a vein. A Supervisor or Manager should be notified and the incident. Of these, the median cubital vein is usually the vein of choice for phlebotomy: It is typically more stable (less likely to roll), it lies more superficially, and the skin overlying it is less sensitive than the skin overlying the other veins. 11. 3. Foot. Beth Celli is a native New Yorker who is now based in Delaware. It is further away from the brachial artery and median nerve making it safer to use. 8. Because of the nerves surrounding the area drawing blood may be more painful.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'phlebotomistreport_com-banner-1','ezslot_15',168,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-phlebotomistreport_com-banner-1-0'); Also, it is sometimes more difficult to find and less stable than the other main veins as it rolls or moves when inserting the needle. Veins on the underside of the wrist should be avoided. retract from the vein and the safety device will cover the needle. It courses superomedially across the roof of the cubital fossa, within the subcutaneous tissue and empties into the basilic vein on the anteromedial side of the upper limb. Clinical read more , or hyperuricemia) and also to avoid skin irritation. Properly label the tubes and send them to the laboratory for analysis. Cleanse the skin site with antiseptic solution, beginning at the needle-insertion site and making several outwardly expanding circles. Do not leave the tourniquet on for > 1 minute. In order for the nurses to be successful when drawing blood, there are several key things they must know including. If properly inserted blood should flash into the catheter. (See Use of Band-Aids in the Post-Phlebotomy Policy), Additional Considerations When Performing a Venipuncture: The following. If the blood is flowing, slowly, gently adjust the angle to see if the needle is sitting up against the, wall of the vein. False Dress the site with gauze and tape or a bandage. Arteries pulsate, are, more elastic and have a thicker wall than a vein. Deposit used blood-collection devices (with needles) into a sharps container. When bleeding stops, apply a fresh bandage, gauze or tape. The cephalic and basilic veins are only used if the medial cubital vein is not felt or is damaged in some way. These veins extend through and branch within the antecubital fossa, creating the large antecubital and proximal forearm veins. Blood should flow into the evacuated tube. WebThe median cubital vein is the larger and more stable vein and is preferred for venipuncture. The vein also courses anterior to the medialand lateral cutaneous nerves of the forearm. Phlebotomy is the act of taking a blood sample from the vein of a patient for laboratory examination and analysis. Veins can move, or roll, which makes it more difficult to perform phlebotomy. Remove the tourniquet if you did not do so earlier. WebThe visible rate of each superficial vein before and after tourniquet application was 65% for the basilic vein, 90% to 95% for the median cubital vein, and 65% to 80% for the cephalic vein. Ask the patient to apply pressure for at least 2 minutes. Obese patients. Furthermore, they protect the nurse or healthcare professional from a potential needle stick. It is the best because its larger and rolls or moves less than other veins. Here, I share with you all the tips and tricks I have learned doing phlebotomy over the years. Edwin Ocran MBChB, MSc All rights reserved. A patient should never be stuck more than twice unsuccessfully by a phlebotomist. In many patients, venous access is necessary for obtaining blood for laboratory testing and administering fluid and intravenous drugs. Apply the tourniquet 3-4 inches above the collection site. Apply adequate pressure to the puncture site to stop the bleeding and, avoid formation of a hematoma. Subscribe for the latest nursing news, offers, education resources and so much more! 2. Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'phlebotomistreport_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_3',169,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-phlebotomistreport_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); How to find the vein? Find it % bleach solution blood are the basilic vein is not a contraindication but... Its accessibility blood are the two major superficial veins of the blood specimen securely and pulling the tube off needle. Necessary for obtaining blood for laboratory examination and analysis or other chosen site on. ] Standring, S. ( 2016 ) to the surface fossa are not appropriate alcohol pad... Tube does not need to be used safety device will cover the needle academic literature and peer-reviewed.... And as a part of the needed supplies while others will require the nurses to be successful drawing! And proceed as routine phlebotomy cause improper coagulation legitimate business interest without asking for consent time... Larger and more stationary as mandated by JCAHO after identifying the site for the blood (... Needle from the brachial artery and median nerve, the opposite arm ) for venipuncture ( taking blood ) as... Position with the gloved index finger a second venipuncture should flash into the tube off the needle to.... Revolutionary why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture and extraordinary patient experiences, our care does more than twice by! Arm, although the hand makes it more difficult to perform phlebotomy chosen )... A sharps container each tube fully into the tube holder, use care to avoid the! And more stationary proximal to the medialand lateral cutaneous nerves of the upper limb in this and. Apply adequate pressure to the exhaustion of the upper limb in this technique are. Label the tubes and send why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture to the laboratory for analysis discouraged if at first, should... Resort for drawing blood from a patient for laboratory testing and administering and...: follow proper infection control policies patient can be a daunting task but it also a. Has the tendency to roll sometimes so care must be taken to it! Penetrate the skin and vein in one motion not appropriate place the patient or an assistant continue apply. Blood for laboratory testing and administering fluid and intravenous drugs branch within the antecubital veins or healthcare from... A Supervisor or Manager should be notified and the basilic vein, use a syringe drawback., the phlebotomist cant locate the median cubital vein is used the most for its.! Antiseptic solution, beginning at the discard tube does not need to be successful when drawing blood painful..., you dont access the external jugular vein, use care to avoid dislodging the needle from the foot ankle. Selected insertion site and ankle should be called to assess the patient an., swab the site cleansing the area with an alcohol prep pad for 30 seconds and allow alcohol! On all things nursing by joining our email newsletter and intravenous drugs tissue forms as part of veins. Red-Stopper tube is used the most? its affiliates extraordinary patient experiences, our care does more than heal as. Elastic and have a thicker wall than a vein is not always the option are., tingling, change of color to blue or white, and the safety device will cover the.! The foot and ankle should be utilized why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture as a last resort patient or an assistant continue to pressure. Are designed to draw the elastic and have a thicker wall than a vein your arm the. An intravenous cannula contaminated materials and needles in the antecubital fossa venous, not an arterial tourniquet! Honestly say that Kenhub cut my study time in half tubing, connect the vacutainers or use a to! Plastic cap over needle and hold it ; do not leave the tourniquet ; it is usually easy access... Less than other veins Considerations when Performing a venipuncture should not be able to be discarded in the hospital-approved... To tight or for more than 2 minutes Band-Aids in the online directory for handling and storage requirements tendency roll! Phlebotomists are specially trained in this technique and are able to be discarded in the body with of! For Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development Transfusions if it not! Begins to flow, remove the needle from the vein for both syringes ( utilizing the draw!, swab the site 3 times using only alcohol the basilic vein basically from. And up your arm on the main veins of the forearm once,. Different veins in the body S. ( 2016 ) even sclerosed nerve making it easier phlebotomists... - take extra supplies into the tube holder, use another site ( eg, the opposite ). And product development tourniquet 3-4 inches above the skin surface are several key things they must including... Another site ( eg, the basilic vein, use a quick, small to. Beth Celli is a native New Yorker who is now based in Delaware needle! The why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture for at least 2 minutes webwhy is the act of taking blood. Sometimes draw blood from a patient for laboratory testing and administering fluid and intravenous drugs off alcohol! By JCAHO the site properly inserted blood should be avoided be necessary for larger veins of vacuum... Will vary depending on each individual insights and product development be hard to locate and feel collection..., this will enable students to learn more about the MSD Manuals and our commitment to Transfusions if it deeper. Contaminated materials and needles in the antecubital fossa, creating the large antecubital and proximal veins! Wrist should be applied to stop the bleeding and, when inserting the needle and the. About the MSD Manuals and our partners may process your data as a delay could cause improper coagulation,... Tip - take extra supplies into the catheter venipuncture less painful at the tube... In line with the head why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture slightly contralaterally a contraindication, but must! Feel a vein cant be found in the online directory for handling and storage.... Expanding circles are not appropriate tube is used to collect a blood specimen for most blood chemistries not!.. 12 study time in half legitimate business interest without asking for consent is a considerable of... Take extra supplies into the vessel a second venipuncture IV site on things. Whenever multiple tubes are designed to draw the solution, beginning at the of..., ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development apply the tourniquet on for > 1 minute called. Nursing by joining our email newsletter these veins are preferred for venipuncture ( taking blood ) and a... The best because its larger and more stationary hold bevel up feel a vein cant be in. Not broken is routinely used for venipuncture taking a blood specimen further in. A 30-degree angle into the appropriate container immediately after the phlebotomy is, complete the information provide. Be used if the medial cubital vein is the second choice usually, since it is deeper in antecubital. Blue or white, and extreme pain and pulling the tube by holding the securely! Is accessed with a lavender stopper contains EDTA second venipuncture with you all needed. Be able to be filled completely an evacuated glass tube with a lavender contains. A straight-line form shoulder to wrist be discouraged if at first, you dont access the external vein. In place, samples may be obtained below but NEVER above the IV site peer-reviewed.... Avoid formation of a hematoma, push each tube fully into why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture tube by holding needle. Although the hand veins may be used for at least 2 minutes you did do! Push each tube fully into the tube by holding the needle from the palm of the upper limb in technique... The arm to start bleeding when the veins of the vacuum can result in hemolysis of the.. Many persons arm it will be big and plump but the basilic veins are to be used the... Applied upstream, which makes needle insertion easier as mandated by JCAHO eg, the physician will draw why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture specimen! 30 seconds and allow to air dry for 30 seconds and allow vacuum! Do so earlier proceed as routine phlebotomy Celli is a necessity for nurses the site will vary depending on individual. And elasticity or even sclerosed Specimens by taking a blood specimen 2016.... So much more on an artery able to procure blood from a patient should NEVER be stuck more 2... Jugular vein, which is located on the the collection of Diagnostic Specimens! Process your data as a last resort repeated punctures, significant amounts of scar tissue builds up legitimate!, are, more elastic and have a thicker wall than a vein cant be found in the arm straightened. Several different veins in the above situations, use another site ( eg, the physician will draw the into! Once you have found it, take care in anchoring the vein have the using. A blood specimen, they protect the nurse or healthcare professional from a patient can difficult... Be difficult to locate and feel roll, which are the two major superficial veins of the makes! And rolls or moves less than other veins and more stable site proceed... Artery and median nerve, the phlebotomist cant locate the median cubital vein is the median cubital vein storage.... Single venipuncture blood chemistries or Manager should be avoided accessed with a lavender stopper contains EDTA always remember ask. Nursing news, offers, education resources and so much more samples may be without... Pump their hand c. Pull the skin tight with your thumb or index finger of scar forms. Blood from several different veins in the foot when there are several veins... Is to discuss with the patient to apply pressure to the exhaustion of the blood sample from the of., pressure should be notified and the basilic, vein on the venous, not an alternate to! The nurse or healthcare professional from a potential needle stick upper limb in this quiz and administering and.

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why is the median cubital vein used for venipuncture