The nurse applies the tourniquet to the selected site. The nurse would release the tourniquet at which time?

• A. After cleaning the insertion site
• B. When the needle enters the vein
• C. As soon as the needle pierces the skin
• D. After the device is secured with tape

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to use the tourniquet to help locate and access a vein, then release it as soon as you have venous access. You keep the tourniquet on long enough to dilate the vein and obtain blood return, which confirms the needle tip is in the vein. Once you see that blood return, release the tourniquet to restore normal circulation and reduce discomfort and the risk of vein damage. Releasing it after cleaning, or only after securing with tape, would not align with getting access promptly or would keep the vein occluded longer than necessary.