Which of the following is a common complication of venipuncture?

Hematoma formation is a common complication of venipuncture due to the accumulation of blood outside of the blood vessel following the puncture. When a needle is inserted into a vein, there’s always the potential for damage to the vessel wall, which can lead to blood leaking out into the surrounding tissues. This leakage causes swelling and discoloration at the site, resulting in a hematoma. The risk of hematoma formation is influenced by factors such as the size of the needle used, the skill of the phlebotomist, the condition of the vein, and the patient’s individual tendency to bruise easily.

While other complications like infection, nerve damage, and excessive bleeding can occur, hematoma formation tends to be more frequent during routine venipuncture procedures and is generally a direct consequence of the technique used rather than underlying conditions. Therefore, it is important for phlebotomists to practice proper techniques and ensure aftercare to minimize the risk of hematoma development.