Phlebotomy
Which site is preferred for a fingerstick on an adult?
- AThe tip of the thumb, at the center of the pad
- BThe side of the little finger near the nail
- CThe index finger, parallel to the fingerprint lines
- DThe middle or ring finger, slightly off center
Not A. The thumb has a pulse and thick, callused skin, and the bone is close to the surface.
D is right. The preferred site is the palmar surface of the fingertip of the middle or ring finger, slightly off center, with the cut made across the fingerprint lines. This gives good blood flow while avoiding bone and sensitive areas.
