When performing a venipuncture for a specimen, the nurse should
a. select an arm in which an IV is infusing
b. apply the tourniquet 3 to 4 inches above the elbow
c. not palpate a distal pulse following applica-tion of the tourniquet
d. select a vein that is not dilated
B
Blood should not be drawn from a site above an intravenous infusion because the specimen will be contaminated with the infusion. The nurse should apply the tourniquet 3 to 4 inches above the venipuncture site. Since the elbow or antecubital fossa is the site most often used for venipuncture, the tourniquet should be this height above the elbow. After applying the tourniquet, the nurse should palpate for the patient's distal pulse. The nurse should find the best site by palpating the veins. The ideal site is a straight prominent vein that feels firm and slightly rebounds when palpated.
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