A nurse is performing blood glucose monitoring on a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Capillary blood glucose monitoring is a routine nursing procedure used to assess a client’s current blood glucose level, particularly in clients with diabetes mellitus or those at risk for hypo- or hyperglycemia. Proper technique is essential to ensure an accurate reading and to minimize discomfort and tissue damage. Correct site selection, adequate blood flow, and appropriate infection control practices are key components of the procedure. Errors in technique can lead to inaccurate results and inappropriate clinical decisions. Rationale: A. Puncturing the side of the finger is the recommended technique because this area has fewer nerve endings and causes less pain. It also provides adequate capillary blood flow for an accurate sample. The lateral aspect of the fingertip reduces tissue trauma and improves patient comfort during repeated testing. B. Positioning the client’s finger above the heart is incorrect because it can reduce capillary blood flow to the puncture site. Lowering the hand below heart level is preferred to promote adequate perfusion and ensure sufficient blood sample collection. Elevation may result in difficulty obtaining an adequate drop of blood. C. Milking the finger site is not recommended because it can cause tissue fluid contamination of the blood sample. This may dilute the capillary blood and result in falsely low or inaccurate glucose readings. Gentle pressure away from the puncture site may be used instead if needed. D. Sterile gloves are not required for routine blood glucose monitoring because the procedure is not considered sterile. Clean gloves are appropriate since the task involves contact with intact skin and a small puncture. Using sterile gloves unnecessarily increases cost without improving patient safety.