When performing a capillary collection from a patient with poor circulation, what technique should the assistant use?

When performing a capillary collection from a patient with poor circulation, warming the hands is an effective technique. The application of warmth helps to dilate the blood vessels, improving blood flow to the capillaries. Enhanced circulation makes it easier to obtain a sufficient blood sample for testing. It is particularly beneficial in cases where a patient may have cold extremities, as increased warmth can help to ensure that the capillary bed is more accessible.

Using a cold compress would have the opposite effect, as it constricts blood vessels and decreases blood flow, making it more challenging to obtain a sample. A high-fiber diet has no relevance in the context of a capillary collection, as it pertains to dietary recommendations rather than immediate procedural techniques. Meanwhile, using a larger needle size is not applicable for capillary collections, which typically use a lancet specifically designed for this purpose; larger needles are generally reserved for venipuncture and would not be appropriate in this scenario. Therefore, warming the hands is the best choice to facilitate a successful capillary blood draw from someone with poor circulation.