Venepuncture Module 1

Question 1

What are the main two layers of the skin

Answer 1

The Epidermis (less sensitive) and the Dermis (more sensitive).

Question 2

Between arteries and veins which has more muscle?

Answer 2

Arteries have more muscle for their diameter

Question 3

Between arteries and veins which utilises valves?

Answer 3

Veins

Question 4

Between arteries and veins which are often visible?

Answer 4

Veins as arteries are deep and protected

Question 5

Between arteries and veins which are palpable?

Answer 5

Arteries will pulsate and veins are non-pulsating

Question 6

Where would the cephalic vein be found?

Answer 6

Between the arm and the wrist

Question 7

Is the cephalic vein a good vein to use for venepuncture?

Answer 7

Yes

Question 8

What are the considerations when using the cephalic vein for venepuncture?

Answer 8

• Should not be used for patients that require fistula formation
• The radial nerve runs parallel to this vein so avoid the wrist area where they are close together
• It is best located above the anterior cubicle

Question 9

Where is the anterior cubicle/antecubital fossa located?

Answer 9

It is located in a depression on the anterior surface of the elbow joint. It is also called the antecubital fossa because it lies anteriorly to the elbow

Question 10

Where is the basilic vein found?

Answer 10

Between the shoulder and wrist

Question 11

Where is the accessory cephalic vein found?

Answer 11

The top of the forearm (it is usually a good size)

Question 12

Where is the dorsal basilic vein found?

Answer 12

Off the cephalic vein located at the lower end of the forearm on the underside

Question 13

How do we obtain easier access to a patients dorsal basilic vein?

Answer 13

Have the patient flex toe forearm at the elbow and face the patient to expose underside of the arm

Question 14

Where is the median cubital vein found?

Answer 14

In the antecubital fossa - it is a large vein which is easily seen and accessed.

Question 15

What are some positive and negative considerations of venepuncture at the median cubital vein site?

Answer 15

+ Usually used to draw blood for shock or trauma patients

• Joint articulation makes access site limited in its use
• Complications of this site mean veins below the point of entry are not reccommended

Question 16

Where is the median vein located?

Answer 16

From the palm of the hand to the underside of the forearm

Question 17

Is the median vein a good vein for venepuncture?

Answer 17

No as is may be difficult to palpate and runs very close to the nerve

Question 18

Describe the dorsal venous network in the hands and whether it is suitable for venepucture?

Answer 18

The dorsal venous network is formed by a union of metacarpal veins on the dorsal aspect of the forearm. They may not always be prominent however the angle of the vein can be a good choice of site for venepuncture

Question 19

Describe the dorsal digital veins in the hands and whether it is suitable for venepucture?

Answer 19

These veins are found along the lateral portion of the fingers and thumb. They should be a last resort for venepuncture and should only be accessed by an expert.

Question 20

What does dorsal mean?

Answer 20

Back portion of the body

Question 21

Describe the dorsal metacarpal veins in the hands and whether it is suitable for venepucture?

Answer 21

Found between the metacarpal bones on the back of the hand they are a good site for venepuncture for some patients.

Question 22

What parts make up the tunica intima (inner layer of the vein)?

Answer 22

Elastin, Squamous Epithelium, Basement membrane