As a medical professional with expertise in phlebotomy, I can tell you that the veins most commonly used for drawing blood are superficial veins that are easily accessible and visible. The specific vein chosen can depend on various factors including the patient's anatomy, the volume of blood needed, and the experience of the phlebotomist.

The median cubital vein, located on the median aspect of the cubital fossa, is a common site for venipuncture. This is the area where the bend of the elbow is, and it's often used because it's a large, superficial vein that's typically easy to locate.

Another commonly used vein is the cephalic vein, which runs from the wrist towards the shoulder, crossing the thenar eminence and the lateral side of the forearm. It's often visible when the hand is clenched into a fist, making it a good option for drawing blood.

The basilic vein, which runs along the medial aspect of the arm from the wrist to the antecubital fossa (the other side of the elbow), is also used, particularly when a larger volume of blood is needed.

Lastly, the dorsal venous arch on the back of the hand can be used, especially in infants or when other veins are not accessible.

It's important to note that the choice of vein can vary, and the phlebotomist will make a clinical judgment based on the specific circumstances of the patient and the procedure.

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1. Median cubital vein A superficial vein, most commonly used for venipuncture, it lies over the cubital fossa and serves as an anastomosis between the cephalic and basilic veins. 2. Cephalic vein Shown in both forearm and arm, it can be followed proximally where it empties into the axillary vein.read more >>