American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

When performing a venipuncture, what should be the approach to minimize discomfort?

1. Perform the procedure quickly

2. Inject a local anesthetic

3. Use a larger gauge needle

4. Apply a warm compress before puncturing

The correct answer is: Apply a warm compress before puncturing

Applying a warm compress before puncturing is an effective approach to minimize discomfort during venipuncture. The warmth helps to dilate the blood vessels, making them more prominent and easier to access. This technique can reduce the difficulty of finding a suitable vein, which can lower the chances of multiple attempts and the associated discomfort. Additionally, the heat can have a soothing effect on the skin and underlying tissue, which may help alleviate anxiety for the patient and make the procedure feel less invasive. In contrast, performing the procedure quickly could lead to a rushed and possibly more jarring experience for the patient, which may actually increase discomfort. Injecting a local anesthetic can also be effective, but it requires additional steps and may not be necessary for every patient or situation. Using a larger gauge needle is often contrary to the goal of minimizing discomfort; larger needles can cause more pain during and after the puncture. Therefore, the application of a warm compress emerges as a practical and patient-friendly method to enhance the overall experience of venipuncture.