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

When preparing a site for venipuncture, which of the following is not mandated?

1. Always start with using iodine

2. Wear gloves

3. Clean the site with an antiseptic

4. Use a tourniquet

The correct answer is: Always start with using iodine

The correct answer is based on an understanding of the recommended practices for preparing a site for venipuncture. Beginning with the application of iodine is not universally mandated as the primary antiseptic. While iodine is frequently used as a skin antiseptic due to its effectiveness in reducing bacteria on the skin, it is not required in all protocols. Alternatives such as chlorhexidine or alcohol swabs can also be used effectively to prepare the skin without a universal mandate for iodine. Wearing gloves is essential for protecting both the healthcare provider and the patient, adhering to standard precautions. Cleaning the site with an antiseptic is critical to prevent infection at the site of puncture, a well-accepted practice in venipuncture procedures. A tourniquet is commonly applied to make veins more visible and accessible but is also not mandated as part of the procedure and can be substituted with other techniques if necessary. Therefore, the use of iodine specifically as the mandated antiseptic is not a requirement.