What is the correct technique to perform a basic capillary fingerstick on an adult?

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Multiple Choice

What is the correct technique to perform a basic capillary fingerstick on an adult?

To perform a basic capillary fingerstick on an adult, start by warming the finger to increase blood flow, then puncture the side of the fingertip with a sterile lancet. Puncturing the side helps minimize pain and avoids the central area where nerves are more concentrated. After puncture, wipe away the first drop of blood to remove any tissue fluid or skin contaminants, then collect from the subsequent drop. Avoid puncturing the pad of the finger and don’t squeeze or milk the finger, since squeezing can dilute the sample with interstitial fluid and milking can cause tissue damage. This combination—warming, side-of-fingertip puncture with a sterile lancet, and discarding the first drop—is the correct approach.

To perform a basic capillary fingerstick on an adult, start by warming the finger to increase blood flow, then puncture the side of the fingertip with a sterile lancet. Puncturing the side helps minimize pain and avoids the central area where nerves are more concentrated. After puncture, wipe away the first drop of blood to remove any tissue fluid or skin contaminants, then collect from the subsequent drop. Avoid puncturing the pad of the finger and don’t squeeze or milk the finger, since squeezing can dilute the sample with interstitial fluid and milking can cause tissue damage. This combination—warming, side-of-fingertip puncture with a sterile lancet, and discarding the first drop—is the correct approach.

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