Why is drawing through a hematoma discouraged?

• A. It improves accuracy
• B. Increases risk of improper samples, pain, and further hematoma; avoid puncturing near hematoma
• C. It prevents contamination
• D. It speeds up collection

Answer: (B)

Drawing blood through a hematoma is discouraged because puncturing near or through a hematoma can contaminate the sample and worsen patient harm. When a hematoma is present, the area around the puncture has extravascular blood and tissue fluids that can mix with the collected specimen, leading to inaccurate test results, such as dilution or interference with components being measured. It also increases pain for the patient and raises the chance of the hematoma enlarging or spreading, and it can make locating and entering a usable vein more difficult. The safest approach is to avoid the hematoma, choose a different vein, or wait until it resolves. This option correctly reflects the clinical goal of maintaining specimen integrity, reducing patient discomfort, and preventing further injury. The other statements do not align with best practice, as drawing through a hematoma does not improve accuracy, does not prevent contamination, and does not speed up collection.