The cephalic vein is a prominent vein located in the upper limb, primarily running along the outer side of the arm. It is responsible for draining blood from the hand and forearm back to the heart. This vein is often used in medical procedures, such as intravenous (IV) therapy and blood draws, due to its accessibility. Anatomically, the cephalic vein originates from the dorsal venous network of the hand and travels up the arm, eventually emptying into the subclavian vein near the shoulder. It is typically larger than other superficial veins, making it a preferred choice for venipuncture in clinical settings.