NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineMedium
A phlebotomy technician is performing a venipuncture. The patient begins to complain of sharp, radiating pain down their arm. What is the most appropriate immediate action for the technician to take?
- AAdjust the needle position slightly to alleviate the pain.
- BAsk the patient to clench their fist tighter to improve blood flow.
- CImmediately remove the needle and apply pressure.
- DContinue the draw, as this is a common patient sensation.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Immediately remove the needle and apply pressure.
Sharp, radiating pain during venipuncture indicates potential nerve involvement. The most appropriate immediate action is to remove the needle to prevent further nerve damage and then apply pressure to the site.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Adjusting the needle could worsen nerve damage if the nerve is already impinged.
- B. Clenching the fist will not alleviate nerve pain and may distract from the actual issue.
- D. Sharp, radiating pain is not a common sensation and indicates a problem.
Nerve Impingement
When a needle punctures or presses against a nerve during venipuncture, causing sharp, radiating pain.
- Symptoms: sharp, radiating, electric-shock-like pain.
- Immediate action: remove needle.
- Can lead to permanent nerve damage if not addressed promptly.
Memory trick: Sharp Radiating Pain? Escape the Nerve Lane!