Final answer:
The PCT should warm the site if necessary and clean it with alcohol before performing a capillary puncture. Selecting an appropriate puncture site, typically on the fingertip or earlobe, is also important for a successful and safe procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Capillary (Dermal) Puncture Preparation
Prior to performing a capillary puncture, a Patient Care Technician (PCT) should take several important steps to ensure the procedure is performed correctly and safely. First, the PCT should warm the puncture site if necessary, as warming the area can increase blood flow, making the puncture easier and potentially more comfortable for the patient. Next, it is crucial to clean the site with alcohol before the puncture to minimize the risk of infection. While applying a tourniquet is common in venipuncture, it is not typically used in capillary punctures. Finally, the PCT should select an appropriate site for the puncture; commonly, the fingertip or the earlobe is used, avoiding calloused or scarred areas, and making sure to choose a site on the side of the fingertip to decrease discomfort.