Final answer:
A PCT should recognize that a capillary puncture is contraindicated for anemic patients (Option C) due to their already reduced blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Professional Credential Technician (PCT) should recognize that a capillary puncture is contraindicated for anemic patients.
Anemic individuals have a reduced red blood cell count or hemoglobin levels, leading to a lower total blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity.
Capillary punctures may worsen the condition by removing additional blood, even in small amounts. Infants may have capillary punctures performed as a common method of blood collection.
Elderly and hypertensive patients are also usually safe for capillary punctures unless specific contraindications are present, such as fragile skin or blood clotting disorders in the elderly.
Capillary puncture is a less invasive method and generally preferable for these groups when only small volumes of blood are needed for testing.
Hence, the correct answer is Option C. Anemic.