California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which equipment should be used by a phlebotomy technician for a hand venipuncture on a patient with small veins?

1. 21 gauge needle

2. 22 gauge butterfly needle

3. 23 gauge winged collection set

4. 25 gauge syringe

The correct answer is: 23 gauge winged collection set

The use of a 23 gauge winged collection set is particularly appropriate for patients with small veins due to its design and the size of the needle, which allows for greater precision and control. The winged configuration provides additional stability during the procedure, making it easier to maneuver into small or fragile veins. Additionally, the gauge is sufficient for accessing small veins without causing excessive trauma, which is crucial in ensuring patient comfort and reducing the risk of complications, such as hematoma or phlebitis. This type of needle setup is specifically designed for venipuncture in areas where veins are smaller, as it minimizes the risk of collapsing the vein during the insertion process. In contrast, the other options either involve larger gauges or less suitable configurations that may not be ideal for small veins. The 21 gauge needle, while suitable for many venipunctures, may be too large for small veins, leading to complications. The 22 gauge butterfly needle might work, but it’s generally less suitable than the 23 gauge winged collection set for very small veins. The 25 gauge syringe, although smaller, is not typically ideal for blood collection purposes, as it does not allow for efficient blood flow for laboratory testing.