Which of the following sequences is the best method for performing a fingerstick? a. squeeze the finger, decontaminate, puncture the skin b. decontaminate, squeeze the finger, puncture the skin, collect the first drop c. decontaminate, puncture the skin, wipe the first drop, collect the sample d. apply tourniquet, puncture the skin, wipe the first drop, collect the sample

Option C, decontaminate, puncture the skin, wipe the first drop, collect the sample

Explanation:

Some of the key measures to follow while performing finger sticking -

a) Choose the best finger - generally the 3rd and 4th fingers of the non-dominant hand

b) Avoid swollen and cold fingers

c) Massage the hand and finger to increase the blood flow

d) Cleanse the finger with 70% isopropyl alcohol

e) Now puncture the skin with a sterile lancet somewhere off the center of the finger pad

f) Wipe away the first drop of blood

Hence, option C is correct