Venipuncture-Related Lateral Antebrachial Cutaneous Nerve Injury in Primary Care Settings

Given the close proximity of nerves to veins commonly accessed for phlebotomy, venipuncture at the antecubital fossa has resulted in nerve injury, including damage to the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve. Although rare, direct needle trauma can cause paresthesia, radiating arm pain, and weakness of the hand or forearm. This case report describes a healthy female who experienced 3 weeks of venipuncture-related paresthesia and pain after an atraumatic venipuncture in the primary care setting.

Duke Scholars

Author Jessica Szydlowski School of Nursing

Author Emily Funk School of Nursing