Which of the following is a function attributed to the basilic vein?

The basilic vein is important in the venous system, particularly in the upper extremities. It runs along the medial (inner) side of the arm and plays a significant role in the venous drainage of the arm. One of its primary functions is to connect to the brachial veins.

When considering this function, it's important to note that the basilic vein receives blood from the forearm and eventually joins with the brachial veins to form the axillary vein. This connection facilitates the drainage of deoxygenated blood from the arm back toward the heart, making it a critical component of venous anatomy in the upper limb.

Other options do not accurately reflect the function of the basilic vein. The basilic vein does not transport oxygenated blood; rather, it carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart. It is not directly connected to the femoral vein, which is located in the lower extremity, and while it can be used for blood sampling, that is not its primary function. Thus, recognizing the basilic vein's role in connecting to the brachial veins highlights its importance in the overall circulatory system.