ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) Phlebotomy Technician Certification Practice Exam

The primary objective of using an antiseptic prior to venipuncture is to minimize infection risk. This step is crucial in the phlebotomy procedure as it helps to reduce the number of microorganisms present on the skin’s surface at the puncture site. By applying an antiseptic, the phlebotomist lowers the chance of introducing pathogens into the bloodstream during the procedure, thereby protecting both the patient and the healthcare provider from potential infections.

While ensuring patient comfort and enhancing blood flow are important considerations in any medical procedure, they do not directly relate to the primary goal of using an antiseptic. The sterilization of instruments is also significant, but the antiseptic is specifically used on the skin to create a sterile field at the venipuncture site. Thus, the use of antiseptics is a critical step in infection control protocols necessary for safe blood collection.