Here's a breakdown:
* Venipuncture: This term specifically refers to the act of puncturing a vein, usually with a needle, to draw blood. It describes the technical procedure itself.
* Phlebotomy: This term is broader and encompasses the entire process of drawing blood, including venipuncture. It also includes the preparation, collection, and handling of the blood sample.
In essence, venipuncture is a key step within the larger process of phlebotomy. So, while they are not completely interchangeable, they often describe the same thing in a medical context.