Final answer:
During venopuncture, the first drop of blood is wiped away to prevent possible contamination from tissue fluids, cells, or debris on the skin's surface, ensuring accurate and reliable laboratory results. This measure maintains the integrity of the blood sample.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first drop of blood that is collected during venopuncture should be wiped away as a standard practice in phlebotomy. This action is taken to prevent potential contamination by tissue fluids, cells, or debris that might have been discharged from the punctured skin. The composition of blood at the skin's surface might differ from that inside the vein, which could lead to inaccurate test results. Discarding the first drop ensures accurate and reliable laboratory results. It’s an essential step in maintaining the integrity of the blood sample being drawn.
During venipuncture, it is important to wipe the first drop of blood. This is done to remove any potential contaminants, such as alcohol or antiseptic solution, that may be present on the surface of the skin. Wiping the first drop of blood also helps ensure that the blood sample collected is representative of the patient's actual blood composition.
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