NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

During phlebotomy, what change might thinner skin tissue in older patients indicate?

1. Increased resistance to punctures

2. Easier access to veins

3. Greater chance of bruising

4. No impact on the procedure

The correct answer is: Greater chance of bruising

Thinner skin tissue in older patients indicates a greater chance of bruising due to several physiological changes that occur with aging. As the skin becomes thinner, the protective layer that cushions blood vessels is reduced, making them more susceptible to damage during procedures. When a needle punctures the skin, there is a higher likelihood of breaking small blood vessels, leading to the formation of bruises. Moreover, older patients often have more fragile blood vessels and less subcutaneous fat, which can further contribute to the risk of bruising after a phlebotomy procedure. The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of thinner skin in older adults. Increased resistance to punctures would not be the case, as thinner skin tends to be easier to puncture, and easier access to veins does not account for the increased risk of complications such as bruising and bleeding. Lastly, while thinner skin may have some negligible impact, it certainly does have an effect on the overall procedure and outcomes for older patients.