What is a characteristic of a butterfly needle?

A butterfly needle is characterized by its winged design, which enhances the ease of handling during the venipuncture process. The wings allow the phlebotomist to have a better grip, which provides greater control and stability when accessing a vein, particularly in smaller veins or in pediatric patients where precision is essential. This feature makes butterfly needles particularly useful for drawing blood in challenging circumstances, such as when veins are difficult to locate.

Unlike other types of needles that may be more rigid and lack this ergonomic design, the butterfly needle's wings facilitate a more stable insertion, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable experience for the patient. While butterfly needles can be used for various procedures and are not limited to skin punctures, they are versatile enough to handle both blood draws and short-term intravenous access.

This design eliminates some of the complications or discomfort that can arise during venipuncture, making it an essential tool in the phlebotomist's toolkit.