Which of the following is a complication of venipuncture?

Phlebitis is indeed a known complication of venipuncture. It refers to the inflammation of a vein and can occur after an intravenous (IV) catheter is inserted or a blood sample is taken. When a needle punctures the skin and enters a vein, there is potential for irritation and damage to the inner lining of the vein, especially if the needle is not inserted properly or if there is movement during the procedure. Phlebitis can lead to symptoms such as tenderness, swelling, and redness along the vein where the puncture occurred. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor for this complication after venipuncture and to ensure proper techniques to minimize the risk.

The other options listed are not generally considered direct complications of venipuncture. Hypertension can be influenced by various factors, including stress or medical conditions, but it is not a common direct outcome of venipuncture. Nausea may occur in some patients due to anxiety or other reasons unrelated to the procedure itself but is not a complication of the venipuncture. Anemia could result from significant blood loss but is not typically a direct result of routine venipuncture, especially when performed correctly. Thus, phlebitis is the most relevant