When performing a capillary puncture, medical assistants should avoid using the thumb because it has a thicker skin and a greater concentration of fatty tissue, which can lead to inaccurate test results. Additionally, the thumb has a strong pulse and can cause excess blood flow, complicating the collection process. Using the side of the finger, typically the ring or middle finger, is preferred for a more reliable sample. This helps ensure that the blood collected is representative of the patient's overall condition.
Identify the acceptable sites to perform a capillary puncture on a patient's hand.
capillary blood collection
When performing skin puncture or venipuncture, a medical assistant must use appropriate barrier protections to ensure safety and prevent infection. This includes wearing disposable gloves, using a mask if there is a risk of splatter, and employing protective eyewear if necessary. Additionally, it's important to use sterile equipment and to follow proper disposal protocols for sharps and contaminated materials. Adhering to these precautions helps protect both the patient and the healthcare worker.
Because of abundant capillary flow.
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a blood collection system used with capillary puncture.
Capillary puncture
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The Radial Artery
Capillary Puncture
The purpose of capillary puncture is to obtain a small sample of blood for diagnostic testing, particularly when only a limited volume is needed. This procedure is commonly used in infants and young children, where venipuncture may be more challenging. Capillary puncture is also utilized for rapid tests, such as blood glucose monitoring, and can provide quick results for various health assessments. It minimizes discomfort and risk for the patient compared to more invasive blood draw methods.
skin puncture blood is only partly