How long should a tourniquet not be left on during venipuncture?

In venipuncture, the tourniquet is an essential tool used to engorge the veins and make them more prominent for needle insertion. However, leaving a tourniquet on for too long can lead to complications such as discomfort for the patient and interference with the accuracy of test results, specifically hemoconcentration.

The recommended maximum duration for leaving a tourniquet on is about 1 minute. This time frame helps prevent negative outcomes like tissue damage and alterations in blood composition that can occur when venous blood is stagnant. If the tourniquet remains in place for longer than this recommended time, it can cause increased pressure in the veins, resulting in the release of metabolic waste products into the blood and affecting laboratory results.

Knowing the appropriate duration for tourniquet application is crucial for maintaining patient safety and obtaining accurate laboratory results during venipuncture procedures.