A nurse is using a glucometer to measure a client's capillary blood glucose level. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
a. This is not recommended. The central tip of the finger is more sensitive and has more nerve endings, which can cause more pain. The recommended site for blood glucose testing is the side of the fingertip, as it is less sensitive and provides an adequate blood sample. b. While it is not necessary to wear sterile gloves for routine capillary blood glucose monitoring, it is important to ensure that the nurse's hands are clean. Wearing clean gloves helps maintain infection control practices. c. After puncturing the selected site, the nurse should gently squeeze the finger to create a small drop of blood. The first drop of blood should be wiped away, and subsequent drops should be used for the glucose test. This ensures that the sample is fresh and not contaminated with tissue fluid. d. Keeping the finger in a dependent position (hanging down) helps improve blood flow to the fingertip, making it easier to obtain a sufficient blood sample. This can help ensure an accurate glucose reading.