CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

During venipuncture, positioning the needle bevel up at an angle of 15 degrees to the skin's surface is optimal for several reasons. Holding the bevel at this angle facilitates a smooth entry into the vein, enhancing the likelihood of successfully puncturing the vessel without causing trauma to the vein wall.

A 15-degree angle strikes a balance that helps minimize the risk of the needle inadvertently passing through the vein, which is more likely at steeper angles. This position allows for better visibility of the vein and can reduce discomfort for the patient as it aligns the needle more directly with the course of the vein rather than piercing it at an angle that could lead to complications, such as hematoma formation.

In addition, this technique is consistent with standard practices in phlebotomy and radiography, which emphasize the importance of gentle and precise needle insertion to ensure patient safety and procedural efficacy.