Final answer:
In blood culture collection, common cleansing agents include 70% ethanol, povidone-iodine, or chlorhexidine gluconate. Chlorhexidine gluconate is often preferred for its effectiveness in reducing skin bacteria. The cleansing process involves scrubbing the puncture site with the selected antiseptic in a circular motion and letting it air dry.
Step-by-step explanation:
When drawing a blood culture, it is essential to use a cleansing agent that will efficiently sterilize the skin and eliminate potential contaminants that could affect the culture results. Typically, a 70% ethanol solution, povidone-iodine, or chlorhexidine gluconate is used for skin antisepsis prior to blood sample collection.
Before the blood sample is taken, the phlebotomist or healthcare professional must cleanse the puncture site with one of these disinfectants, scrubbing in a circular motion from the center to the periphery and allowing the solution to air dry to maximize its antimicrobial action.
For example, studies suggest that chlorhexidine gluconate is more effective than other agents in reducing skin bacterial counts and therefore may be preferable, particularly in settings with elevated risk of infection. Special care should also be taken to handle sterile equipment like needles and culture bottles with clean hands and in a manner that does not contaminate them.