When performing a venipuncture, the nurse should:

D
Place the thumb or forefinger of the nondominant hand 1 inch below the site and gently pull the skin taut. Stretch the skin down until the vein is stabilized. Hold a syringe and needle at a 15- to 30-degree angle from the patient's arm with the bevel up. Palpate for a firm vein that rebounds. Do not use veins that feel rigid or cordlike; a thrombosed vein is rigid, rolls easily, and is difficult to puncture. Allowing alcohol to dry completes its antimicrobial task and reduces the sting of venipuncture. Alcohol left on the skin can cause hemolysis of the sample.