Question 76

A phlebotomist should use a 23-gauge needle for a venipuncture with a winged infusion set and a 5 mL syringe.

A 23-gauge needle is appropriate for venipuncture in this scenario, as it provides a balance between sufficient blood flow and minimal discomfort for the patient.

A) 23gauge

This option is correct because a 23-gauge needle is commonly used for venipuncture, especially with a winged infusion set. It is thin enough to minimize patient discomfort while still allowing for adequate blood flow for a 5 mL syringe.

B) 18gauge

An 18-gauge needle is too large for typical venipuncture procedures, particularly in patients with smaller veins. While it allows for rapid blood flow, it may cause unnecessary pain and trauma during the procedure.

C) 25gauge

A 25-gauge needle is too small for venipuncture using a 5 mL syringe. It may result in slower blood flow and could lead to complications such as hemolysis or difficulty in collecting an adequate sample.

D) 27gauge

This option is also incorrect as a 27-gauge needle is even smaller than a 25-gauge needle. It is not suitable for venipuncture due to its high resistance to blood flow, which would make it challenging to collect a sufficient amount of blood in a timely manner.

Conclusion

The 23-gauge needle is the best choice for venipuncture with a winged infusion set and a 5 mL syringe, as it strikes an optimal balance between patient comfort and effective blood collection. In contrast, the other options either provide insufficient flow or are too large, making them less suitable and potentially detrimental in a clinical setting.