Final answer:
The tourniquet should not remain on the arm for longer than one minute during a venipuncture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tourniquet should not remain on the arm for longer than one minute during a venipuncture.
The purpose of a tourniquet in a venipuncture procedure is to restrict blood flow to engorge the veins, making them easier to locate and access. However, leaving the tourniquet on for too long can cause complications such as hemoconcentration, which can affect laboratory test results. Additionally, prolonged application of a tourniquet can cause venous stasis and discomfort to the patient.
Therefore, healthcare professionals are trained to apply the tourniquet immediately before the venipuncture and release it promptly once blood flow has been established or if there are any signs of patient discomfort.