NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Patient PreparationEasy
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to draw blood from a patient who reports having had a mastectomy on their left side. Which arm should the technician prioritize for venipuncture?
- AEither arm, depending on patient preference.
- BThe left arm, as long as there are visible veins.
- CThe right arm, if no other contraindications are present.
- DThe left arm, but only with a butterfly needle.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The right arm, if no other contraindications are present.
Venipuncture should always be avoided on the same side as a mastectomy due to the risk of lymphedema, infection, and altered lymphatic drainage. The right arm should be prioritized, assuming it has no other contraindications.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Patient preference is secondary to medical contraindications; safety takes precedence.
- B. Drawing from the mastectomy side is contraindicated due to risks of lymphedema and infection.
- D. Using a butterfly needle does not negate the risks associated with drawing from a mastectomy side.
Mastectomy and Venipuncture
Avoidance of venipuncture on the same side as a mastectomy.
- Risk of lymphedema.
- Increased risk of infection.
- Always use the contralateral (opposite) arm if possible.
Memory trick: Mastectomy side? No draw, just hide!