NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

To produce a rounded drop of blood, finger punctures should be made:

1. On the index finger.

2. On the fingerprint.

3. Before the alcohol is dry.

4. Across the fingerprint.

The correct answer is: Across the fingerprint.

Producing a rounded drop of blood during a finger puncture is best achieved by making the puncture across the fingerprint rather than along or into it. The ridges of the fingerprint, when punctured across, allow the blood to pool and form a drop more effectively. This technique minimizes the chance of blood being trapped or spreading, which can happen if the puncture is made with the lines of the fingerprint. Making a puncture on the index finger does not specifically aid in obtaining a rounded drop of blood, as the focus should be on the orientation of the puncture related to the fingerprint. Puncturing on the fingerprint can also create complications in blood flow, as the ridges might obstruct the blood from forming a perfect drop. Additionally, if the puncture is made before the alcohol is dry, it can lead to contamination and irritation, affecting the quality of the blood sample. Thus, for optimal results and cleanliness in drawing blood for testing purposes, the best practice is to puncture across the fingerprint.