American Medical Technologist (AMT) Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Resource to Guarantee Exam Success!

After completing a venipuncture procedure, it is essential to apply a clean, sterile gauze pad to the site. This helps to minimize the risk of infection by absorbing any residual blood and providing a barrier against contaminants. The sterile gauze pad not only controls bleeding but also promotes clotting at the site, enabling proper healing.

Using a clean, sterile gauze is vital because it is designed to be free from pathogens and reduces the risk of introducing bacteria into the puncture wound. It allows for adequate pressure to be applied to stop any bleeding, which is an important step in the post-procedure care.

Other options are not appropriate following the procedure. An alcohol pad is typically used for cleansing the skin before venipuncture, not after, as it can cause irritation or delay healing. A Band-aid, while helpful in some situations, may not provide the necessary sterile environment for larger punctures and may not effectively absorb blood. Antiseptic ointment is generally not recommended for open wounds like venipuncture sites, as it can trap bacteria and moisture rather than protect the area effectively.