American Medical Technologist (AMT) Practice Exam

What is the optimal way to minimize the risk of a hematoma during venipuncture?

1. Ensure the needle is removed quickly

2. Press the site firmly after withdrawal

3. Use a larger gauge needle

4. Insert the needle at an acute angle

The correct answer is: Press the site firmly after withdrawal

Pressing the site firmly after the withdrawal of the needle is the optimal way to minimize the risk of a hematoma during venipuncture. When blood is drawn from a vein, there is a possibility that blood may leak out of the vessel and into the surrounding tissue, which can lead to the formation of a hematoma. By applying pressure to the site immediately after the needle is removed, you help close the puncture in the vein and reduce the likelihood of blood escaping into the surrounding area. This pressure helps to promote hemostasis, which is the process of stopping bleeding, and minimizes the potential for complications like hematomas. In contrast, the other options do not effectively address the issue of preventing hematomas: - Removing the needle quickly does not necessarily mitigate the risk of bleeding; it's more important to control the site afterward. - Using a larger gauge needle may actually increase the risk of damaging the vein and causing internal bleeding, rather than preventing a hematoma. - Inserting the needle at an acute angle could lead to improper placement and increase the likelihood of vessel damage, heightening the risk of a hematoma rather than reducing it. Overall, applying firm pressure post-withdrawal is a proactive measure that directly impacts the hemostatic