When collecting blood samples from patients with difficult veins, what technique is often recommended?

Utilizing a butterfly needle is often recommended for collecting blood samples from patients with difficult veins due to its design and ease of use. Butterfly needles, also known as winged infusion sets, have flexible "wings" that provide greater control and stability during the procedure. This design allows for better maneuverability, making it easier for healthcare professionals to access smaller or harder-to-locate veins, which are often found in patients such as infants, the elderly, or those with chronic conditions.

The smaller gauge of butterfly needles also minimizes discomfort for the patient while providing sufficient blood flow for testing. Overall, when faced with challenging venous access situations, the precision and user-friendliness of butterfly needles make them a favored choice among phlebotomists.