Clinical ProceduresQuestion 40 of 100
A medical assistant applies a tourniquet and then has trouble locating a vein. After how long should the tourniquet be released?
a.After 5 minutes, since the tourniquet keeps the vein visible
b.It may stay on until the entire draw is finished, regardless of time
c.After 10 minutes, then re-tightened immediately
d.Within 1 minute, then reapplied after a brief pause before the puncture
Explanation
A tourniquet left on longer than about 1 minute causes hemoconcentration and can falsely elevate results such as potassium and protein, so it should be released and reapplied after a short rest if more time is needed. Leaving it in place for 5 or 10 minutes greatly worsens the distortion and causes patient discomfort. The tourniquet should also be released as soon as blood flow is established during the draw.
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