Hematoma is best described as what?

• A. Inflammation due to repeated venipuncture
• B. Systemic infection
• C. Bruising of tissue
• D. Nerve damage

Answer: (C)

Hematoma is a localized collection of blood outside a vessel, which in everyday terms is a bruise forming in tissue after vessel injury. During venipuncture, if the vein is punctured or the needle displaces and blood leaks into surrounding tissue, a hematoma develops. It shows up as swelling and color change in the area as the blood slowly is resorbed. This is different from inflammation, a systemic infection, or nerve damage, which involve different processes and symptoms. Preventing a hematoma relies on good technique and applying firm pressure after the needle is withdrawn to stop the leak and protect the puncture site. If a hematoma occurs, avoid further draws from that arm at that site and monitor for increasing pain or swelling.