When performing venipuncture, which arm should be avoided after a mastectomy?

After a mastectomy, it is important to avoid using the arm on the side of the surgery for venipuncture. This is because the surgical removal of breast tissue often involves the removal of lymph nodes under the arm, which can lead to a risk of lymphedema. Lymphedema is a condition characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid, and using the affected arm for venipuncture could potentially exacerbate this condition or lead to complications.

In general practice, healthcare providers aim to protect the integrity of the affected side to prevent any further impairment or swelling in patients who have undergone a mastectomy. By using the arm opposite the mastectomy instead, practitioners help minimize the risk of complications and ensure patient safety.

The other options suggest that both arms may be considered safe or imply that neither arm be used without properly weighing the medical history and potential risks for the patient who has undergone this type of surgery. Proper training emphasizes the significance of understanding the implications of surgical procedures on subsequent healthcare interventions, such as venipuncture.