What is a common complication after a venipuncture?

A common complication following venipuncture is the formation of a hematoma. This occurs when blood leaks out of the blood vessel and accumulates in the surrounding tissue, leading to swelling and discoloration at the site of the puncture. Hematomas can develop if a needle punctures through the opposite wall of the vein, if excessive pressure is applied during the procedure, or if the patient continues to move their arm after the puncture has been made.

Proper technique can help minimize the risk of a hematoma, such as ensuring adequate pressure is applied after needle withdrawal, using the correct needle size, and positioning the patient appropriately. Although infection, pneumothorax, and syncope are also potential complications associated with venipuncture, they are considered less common than hematoma. Infections may arise from poor aseptic technique or contamination, pneumothorax is rare and generally associated with procedures involving deeper structures, and syncope pertains more to the patient's reaction than to the procedure itself. Thus, hematoma stands out as a frequent complication encountered after venipuncture.