What complication can arise for mastectomy patients during blood draws?

For mastectomy patients, several complications can arise during blood draws, making the selection of "all of the above" the most comprehensive answer.

Firstly, there is an increased risk of infection. Following a mastectomy, the surgical site can be vulnerable, and performing a blood draw on or near the affected area could introduce pathogens, leading to infection. Thus, this concern must be taken seriously by healthcare providers.

Secondly, patients may experience extreme pain from edema. Edema refers to the swelling caused by fluid accumulation, which can occur in the arm or chest area post-mastectomy. Drawing blood from an area affected by swelling may be not only uncomfortable but could also elevate the patient’s pain levels, complicating the procedure.

Lastly, mastectomy patients might have higher concentrations of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells involved in the immune response. These cells can accumulate in the lymphatic system after surgery due to changes in lymphatic drainage, which can potentially impact laboratory results or complicate the blood draw process itself.

Thus, considering the combined risks of infection, pain due to edema, and altered lymphocyte levels, choosing "all of the above" encompasses the full spectrum of complications that can arise during blood draws for mastectomy patients