Which of the following is a common complication of venipuncture?

Hemolysis and infection are both recognized as common complications of venipuncture. Hemolysis refers to the destruction of red blood cells, which can occur if the blood specimen is drawn too forcefully or if the blood is improperly handled after collection. This can interfere with laboratory test results and impact patient care.

Infection, on the other hand, is a risk associated with any procedure that breaks the skin, including venipuncture. If the site is not properly cleaned or if proper sterile techniques are not followed, there is a potential for pathogens to enter the bloodstream, which can lead to complications ranging from localized infections to more serious systemic infections.

Both of these complications can significantly affect patient outcomes and laboratory results, making awareness and prevention critical in the practice of venipuncture. Therefore, the correct answer identifies the importance of understanding these potential risks in order to mitigate them effectively during the procedure.