What angle should the needle be inserted during venipuncture?

During venipuncture, the needle should ideally be inserted at an angle of 15 to 30 degrees. This angle is optimal as it allows for effective access to the vein while minimizing the risk of puncturing through the opposite wall. The slight angle helps in entering the vein smoothly and ensures that the bevel of the needle is positioned correctly to facilitate blood flow into the collection device. A shallow angle, like 0 to 5 degrees, may risk not entering the vein adequately, while a steeper angle, such as 30 to 45 degrees, can be more challenging and may increase the chances of complications. Therefore, the 15 to 30 degrees angle strikes a balance that is both effective for drawing blood and safe for the patient.