Final answer:
The phlebotomist should wait 30 to 60 seconds before inserting the needle to let the antiseptic dry and maximize its effectiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phlebotomist should wait 30 to 60 seconds before inserting the needle after cleansing the puncture site. This is primarily to let the antiseptic dry and maximize its effectiveness. Waiting for the antiseptic to dry ensures that it has enough time to kill any bacteria on the skin, reducing the risk of infection.