What should the bevel of the needle do during insertion into the skin?

During insertion into the skin, the bevel of the needle should be facing up. This positioning allows for a smoother entry into the skin, minimizing trauma to the tissue and helping to ensure that the needle easily penetrates the skin. When the bevel is oriented upwards, it creates a tapered point that allows for a cleaner puncture as it enters the vein or capillary. This technique is particularly important for phlebotomy, as it can facilitate better blood flow and reduce the likelihood of complications such as hemolysis or hematoma formation. Proper orientation of the bevel also improves the chances of successfully entering the vein on the first attempt, which enhances patient comfort and reduces anxiety associated with multiple needle sticks.