Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 91%
Simulated
A nurse is teaching an assistive personnel (AP) how to obtain a capillary finger stick blood sample. Which of the following actions by the AP requires the nurse to intervene?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Elevating the finger above heart level. This action is incorrect because it can impede blood flow to the finger, making it difficult to obtain an adequate blood sample. To obtain a capillary finger stick blood sample, the finger should be held in a dependent position to promote blood flow. Wrapping the finger in a warm cloth (A) helps dilate blood vessels for easier blood collection. Rubbing the fingertip with an alcohol pad (B) cleans the area to prevent infection. Puncturing the side of the fingertip (C) is the correct technique for obtaining a capillary blood sample.