NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineMedium
A phlebotomy technician is performing a venipuncture and observes that the patient's arm begins to swell rapidly around the puncture site. The patient reports immediate pain. Which of the following complications is most likely occurring?
- APhlebitis
- BPetechiae
- CHemoconcentration
- DHematoma
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Hematoma
Rapid swelling and immediate pain around the venipuncture site are classic signs of a hematoma. This occurs when blood leaks out of the vein and into the surrounding tissue, often due to the needle going through the vein, the bevel being partially out, or insufficient pressure applied post-draw.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein, typically occurring hours to days after a draw, not immediately.
- B. Petechiae are small, pinpoint red spots, not rapid swelling.
- C. Hemoconcentration is an increase in the proportion of cellular elements in blood due to fluid loss, not visible swelling.
Hematoma During Venipuncture
A common complication of venipuncture where blood leaks from the vein into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling, pain, and discoloration.
- Caused by needle through vein, partial bevel in vein, or insufficient pressure.
- Symptoms: rapid swelling, pain, bruising.
- Action: remove tourniquet and needle, apply direct pressure.
Memory trick: Swelling and pain? It's a hematoma's reign.