The act of puncturing a vein for the drawing of blood or administration of medication.
See also: venipuncture
Peripheral venous access is required for:
- Administration of fluids
- Administration of drugs
- Obtaining a blood sample
Central venous access is required for:
Possible complications of venepuncture:
Polderman K H, Girbes A R J. Central venous catheter use: mechanical complications. Intensive Care Med 2002; 28: 1-17.
Polderman K H, Girbes A R J. Central venous catheter use: infectious complications. Intensive Care Med 2002; 28: 18-28.