What is a winged infusion set commonly used for?

A winged infusion set, often referred to as a butterfly needle, is specifically designed for accessing small or difficult veins, making it particularly advantageous in pediatric patients or in cases where veins are not easily accessible. The design features plastic "wings" on either side of the needle, which allow for better control and stabilization when the needle is inserted into the vein. This precision helps minimize discomfort and reduces the risk of damaging fragile veins, which can be important in pediatric patients who typically have smaller and more delicate veins compared to adults.

In addition, the smaller gauge used in winged infusion sets facilitates easier insertion and less trauma than larger needles, making it more suitable for collecting blood from veins that might be challenging to puncture. While other options relate to blood collection techniques, they do not accurately reflect the specific purpose and design advantage of the winged infusion set in accessing difficult or small veins.