Patient PreparationQuestion 87 of 100
Small red pinpoint spots appear on the arm under the tourniquet. What do they indicate?
a.An allergic reaction to the tourniquet latex
b.The beginning of a hematoma
c.Contamination of the site
d.Petechiae, suggesting capillary fragility or a platelet problem, and a tendency to bleed at the site
Explanation
Petechiae are tiny non-raised red spots from capillary leakage and often warn that the patient may bleed longer after the draw. They are not an allergic reaction, which appears as raised itchy welts, and not a hematoma, which is a diffuse swelling and bruise. They do not indicate contamination, but they do mean pressure should be held longer after needle removal.
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