Nerve injuries during venipuncture are often associated with attempts to puncture which vein?

The basilic vein is located in close proximity to several major nerves in the arm, particularly the median and ulnar nerves. Due to its position and the nature of the anatomy surrounding it, attempts to puncture the basilic vein carry a higher risk of nerve injury compared to other veins. Additionally, the basilic vein is often deeper and less stable, which may necessitate deeper or more forceful attempts at venipuncture, increasing the likelihood of accidentally contacting a nerve.

In contrast, the median vein and cephalic vein are generally positioned in areas where the risk of nerve injury is lower. The median vein, for instance, is centrally located in the antecubital fossa and tends to be easier to access without approaching nearby nerves closely. The cephalic vein runs more laterally, staying sufficiently clear from major nerves. Similarly, the accessory cephalic vein is usually small and located superficial to the main cephalic vein, thus also posing a lesser risk for nerve injury during venipuncture procedures.

Understanding the anatomical relationships of these veins with surrounding structures is essential for safe venipuncture and helps to minimize complications such as nerve damage.