Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 87%
Simulated
A nurse is using a glucometer to measure a client's capillary blood glucose level. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Keep the finger in a dependent position. This is important because keeping the finger in a dependent position helps facilitate blood flow to the area, making it easier to obtain an adequate blood sample for accurate glucose measurement. By allowing gravity to assist in the blood flow, the nurse can ensure a more reliable reading.
Choice B (Wear sterile gloves) is not directly related to the correct technique for obtaining a capillary blood glucose sample. It is important to wear gloves for infection control but not specifically for this procedure.
Choice C (Select the central tip of a finger) is not as critical as maintaining the finger in a dependent position. While choosing the central tip may be a good practice for comfort and less pain, it is not the most important factor for accurate measurement.
Choice D (Test the first drop of blood that forms after the puncture) is incorrect because the first drop of blood may contain tissue fluid or excess interstitial fluid, which could dilute the blood sample
Choice B (Wear sterile gloves) is not directly related to the correct technique for obtaining a capillary blood glucose sample. It is important to wear gloves for infection control but not specifically for this procedure.
Choice C (Select the central tip of a finger) is not as critical as maintaining the finger in a dependent position. While choosing the central tip may be a good practice for comfort and less pain, it is not the most important factor for accurate measurement.
Choice D (Test the first drop of blood that forms after the puncture) is incorrect because the first drop of blood may contain tissue fluid or excess interstitial fluid, which could dilute the blood sample