What is one reason for using a butterfly needle?

Using a butterfly needle is particularly advantageous for patients with small or difficult veins because of its design. The wings of the butterfly needle provide better control and stability, making it easier to insert into small or fragile veins. This is especially beneficial in pediatric or geriatric populations, where veins may be less prominent and more challenging to puncture. The smaller gauge of the needle also reduces the risk of collapsing the vein during the procedure.

In contrast, while some patients may perceive less pain with butterfly needles, the primary reason for their use is the precision and ease in accessing difficult veins. Furthermore, butterfly needles are not used to collect larger volumes of blood; they are typically meant for smaller blood draws or venipunctures. Lastly, the skill level required to use a butterfly needle is similar to that of other phlebotomy equipment, so it’s not necessarily easier to use.