What is a common complication of venipuncture?

Bruising at the puncture site is a common complication of venipuncture due to the nature of the procedure, which involves puncturing the skin and underlying blood vessels to collect a blood sample. When the needle enters a vein, it can inadvertently damage small blood vessels, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. This can lead to a visible bruise, known as a hematoma, forming around the puncture site. Such bruising is a typical reaction and usually resolves on its own without treatment.

In contrast, while dehydration may affect a patient's venous access or overall health, it isn't a direct complication of the venipuncture process. Improved blood flow is not a complication but rather a desired outcome in certain medical procedures. Infection at the site is a possible, though less common, consequence of venipuncture, especially if sterile techniques are not followed; however, it is generally less frequent than bruising. Overall, the propensity for bruising makes it a more common complication that clinicians and patients alike should be aware of following venipuncture procedures.