The University of Alabama
Capstone College of Nursing
NUR 534: Fundamentals of Professional Nursing Practice
Topic: Capillary Puncture or Fingerstick
Objectives: Upon successful completion of the clinical laboratory experiences, the
student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate safe, efficient capillary blood specimen collection.
2. Teach patient important points related to capillary puncture.
3. Describe preparation and choosing of site for capillary puncture.
Capillary Puncture or Fingerstick (See Potter & Perry Skill 45.4 Blood glucose
Monitoring)
Indications/Purpose of obtaining a capillary sample
Less invasive and painful than venipuncture
Results immediately available
Can easily be taught for self-testing e.g. blood glucose measuring
Delegation
Can be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)
RN is responsible for ensuring the task is completed and evaluation of the
results
Key nursing points:
Select a non-bruised site with intact skin and evidence of good circulation
Dependent finger position, below heart. Have patient massage, wring hands,
clap hands.
Hold finger at junction with hand to engorge with blood and do not release until
blood flows
Have pt take deep breath to relax a little. Distract with eye contact and soft
conversation
Clean site with alcohol and let dry. Then puncture lateral fingertip, not central
Wipe away first drop of blood with sterile gauze when appropriate
Size of drop depends on strip used, some require more than others
Unexpected outcomes
Site bruises or continues to bleed (especially if on blood thinners). Maintain
pressure.
Updated 12.16.25 abb
Capstone College of Nursing
NUR 534: Fundamentals of Professional Nursing Practice
Topic: Capillary Puncture or Fingerstick
Objectives: Upon successful completion of the clinical laboratory experiences, the
student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate safe, efficient capillary blood specimen collection.
2. Teach patient important points related to capillary puncture.
3. Describe preparation and choosing of site for capillary puncture.
Capillary Puncture or Fingerstick (See Potter & Perry Skill 45.4 Blood glucose
Monitoring)
Indications/Purpose of obtaining a capillary sample
Less invasive and painful than venipuncture
Results immediately available
Can easily be taught for self-testing e.g. blood glucose measuring
Delegation
Can be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)
RN is responsible for ensuring the task is completed and evaluation of the
results
Key nursing points:
Select a non-bruised site with intact skin and evidence of good circulation
Dependent finger position, below heart. Have patient massage, wring hands,
clap hands.
Hold finger at junction with hand to engorge with blood and do not release until
blood flows
Have pt take deep breath to relax a little. Distract with eye contact and soft
conversation
Clean site with alcohol and let dry. Then puncture lateral fingertip, not central
Wipe away first drop of blood with sterile gauze when appropriate
Size of drop depends on strip used, some require more than others
Unexpected outcomes
Site bruises or continues to bleed (especially if on blood thinners). Maintain
pressure.
Updated 12.16.25 abb
