The nurse is preparing to obtain a capillary blood glucose measurement for a client with diabetes mellitus. To ensure accurate results and reduce the risk of infection, in what order should the nurse perform the following actions? Arrange the steps in the correct sequence.
- 1Clean the selected puncture site with an alcohol swab and allow it to air dry completely.
- 2Puncture the lateral aspect of the fingertip with a sterile lancet.
- 3Wipe away the first drop of blood using a clean, dry gauze pad.
- 4Apply the second drop of blood to the reagent test strip.
- 5Apply direct pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or gauze pad.
Answer
The correct sequence is to first clean and dry the site, puncture the lateral fingertip, wipe away the first drop of blood, apply the second drop to the test strip, and finally apply pressure to the site.
Obtaining a capillary blood glucose measurement requires strict adherence to technique to ensure both client safety (infection prevention) and clinical accuracy (preventing altered readings). The site must first be cleaned and completely dried. Puncturing the lateral side of the finger minimizes pain. Wiping away the first drop of blood is a critical step because it may be diluted with serous fluid or remaining alcohol. The second drop is then applied to the test strip for a highly accurate reading, followed immediately by applying pressure to the site to stop bleeding and prevent bruising.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Capillary Blood Glucose Monitoring and Risk Reduction