A nurse is obtaining a capillary blood specimen to measure a client's blood glucose. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Allow the antiseptic to dry before puncturing.: This is correct. It is important to allow the antiseptic (such as alcohol) to dry before puncturing the skin. If the antiseptic is not allowed to dry, it can cause hemolysis of the blood sample and lead to inaccurate glucose readings. B. Apply sterile gloves.: This is incorrect. While gloves should be worn to maintain hygiene and safety, non-sterile gloves are sufficient for a capillary blood glucose test. Sterile gloves are not necessary unless the procedure requires aseptic technique. C. Hold the lancet at a 45° angle.: This is incorrect. The lancet should be held at a 90° angle to the skin to ensure a proper and clean puncture. D. Massage the client's finger away from the puncture site.: This is incorrect. The finger should not be massaged before or after the puncture site because it can cause tissue damage and lead to inaccurate blood samples due to the mixing of interstitial fluid with the blood sample.