A nurse is obtaining a 2-hr postprandial blood glucose from a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answer is D: Select the lateral side of the finger for puncture. This is important because the lateral side has fewer nerve endings, making it less painful for the client. Additionally, it reduces the risk of injury to the nerves and blood vessels located on the other sides of the finger. Puncturing the finger while still damp with antiseptic solution (choice A) can dilute the blood sample and affect accuracy. Smearing the blood onto the reagent strip (choice B) may lead to inaccurate results due to improper application. Holding the finger above the heart prior to puncture (choice C) can increase blood flow and potentially affect the glucose level. Therefore, selecting the lateral side of the finger for puncture is the best practice for obtaining a 2-hr postprandial blood glucose sample.