American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ASCP Histotechnician Certification Exam with interactive quizzes, comprehensive flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your study with our expertly crafted practice questions!

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What is the main purpose of using alcohol and iodine to clean the venipuncture site?

To prevent contamination
To enhance blood flow
To stabilize the vein
To numb the area

The correct answer is: To prevent contamination

The primary purpose of using alcohol and iodine to clean the venipuncture site is to prevent contamination. This cleaning process is essential to minimize the risk of introducing pathogens into the bloodstream during the procedure. Alcohol acts as an antiseptic by effectively killing bacteria and other microorganisms on the skin, while iodine provides additional antimicrobial properties. Together, they create a sterile environment that is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the blood sample and the safety of the patient. While enhancing blood flow, stabilizing the vein, or numbing the area might be desirable during a venipuncture, these effects are not the primary focus of using alcohol and iodine. Cleaning the site to reduce infection risk is the most critical aspect of preparing for a safe blood draw.