ASCP Phlebotomy Technician Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free Phlebotomy Practice Questions and Study Guide

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Which chemical agent is best for decontaminating a patient's finger before a skin puncture?

Ethyl alcohol

Isopropanol

When preparing a patient's finger for a skin puncture, the primary goal is to ensure that the site is free from any potential contaminants that could lead to infection or affect the quality of the sample being collected. Isopropanol is an excellent choice for this purpose because it effectively kills a wide range of microorganisms quickly and is generally well tolerated on the skin.

Isopropanol has a higher antimicrobial efficacy than other common disinfectants such as ethyl alcohol, particularly in the context of certain bacterial spores and viruses. Its quick evaporation also means it does not leave a residue that could potentially interfere with test results, making it suitable for skin preparation before puncture.

While other agents like ethyl alcohol and chlorhexidine are also used for skin disinfection, isopropanol is often preferred due to its rapid effectiveness and lower risk of irritation in certain applications. Chlorhexidine, while very effective, can sometimes lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Therefore, isopropanol stands out as the optimal choice for pre-puncture skin disinfection in this scenario.

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Hydrogen peroxide

Chlorhexidine solution

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