CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which vein site is commonly overused, leading to scarring or sclerosis?

1. Dorsal wrist

2. Back of the hand

3. Anterior surface of the elbow

4. Superficial foot

The correct answer is: Anterior surface of the elbow

The anterior surface of the elbow is a commonly used site for venipuncture, particularly for drawing blood or starting intravenous (IV) lines. Due to the prominence of the veins in this area, it is often chosen for its accessibility and visibility. However, frequent use of this site can lead to complications such as scarring or sclerosis of the veins. Scarring occurs due to repeated puncture and irritation from the needle, which can compromise the integrity of the vein over time. Sclerosis, on the other hand, refers to the hardening or thickening of the vessel walls as a response to repeated trauma or inflammation. In contrast, while the dorsal wrist and back of the hand may also be used for venipuncture, they are typically not accessed as frequently as the anterior elbow, which is why they are less likely to develop significant scarring or sclerosis. The superficial foot is generally not a preferred site for venipuncture due to its anatomical position and potential complications, making it less common and therefore less associated with the problems of scarring or sclerosis seen in more frequently accessed sites like the anterior elbow.