Which of the following is the most common arterial puncture complication even when proper technique is used?

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When performing arterial puncture, the most common complication you’ll encounter—even with careful technique—is arterial spasm. Arteries have a muscular wall, and stimulation from needle manipulation or pressure can trigger a reflex of the smooth muscle in the vessel wall to constrict. This vasoconstriction narrows the artery, makes smooth blood flow harder to obtain, and can cause pain or discomfort. It’s a physiological protective response, so it tends to occur more frequently than other issues when technique is correct.

Hematoma can happen if bleeding occurs from the puncture site, but with proper technique and careful pressure control it’s less likely than a spasm. Infection is possible but uncommon with sterile technique, and thrombus formation is also a risk, though it’s not as common as the vasospastic response in this context.