NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which method is best for collecting a blood specimen from an older adult patient with fragile veins?

1. Using a syringe and butterfly assembly

2. Using a standard vacutainer

3. Using a larger gauge needle

4. Using a heel stick

The correct answer is: Using a syringe and butterfly assembly

The best method for collecting a blood specimen from an older adult patient with fragile veins is to use a syringe and butterfly assembly. This technique is particularly beneficial for this demographic because the butterfly assembly, known for its small wings and flexible tubing, provides greater control and stability during the venipuncture process. As a result, it minimizes the risk of accidentally collapsing fragile veins, which can be common in older adults due to age-related changes in their vascular system. Using a syringe allows for a more gentle technique when drawing blood, as it enables the phlebotomist to create a vacuum that is easier to control compared to traditional vacutainers. This gentler approach helps to protect the integrity of the veins, making this method suitable for patients with compromised vascular support. In contrast, other methods like standard vacutainers may exert more pressure on the veins, increasing the likelihood of damage or collapse. Larger gauge needles could potentially exacerbate the situation by causing more trauma to fragile veins, and heel sticks are typically used for infants rather than older adults, making them inappropriate in this scenario. This understanding underscores the importance of selecting the appropriate method based on patient needs and conditions during blood collection.