A phlebotomist must collect a blood specimen from a patient under contact transmission precautions. Which of the following is the best type of tourniquet the phlebotomist should use?

In a situation where a phlebotomist must collect a blood specimen from a patient under contact transmission precautions, the best type of tourniquet to use is a disposable tourniquet. Disposable tourniquets are designed for single-use, which helps minimize the risk of cross-contamination or infection transmission. They can easily be discarded after each use, adhering to infection control protocols that prioritize hygiene and patient safety.

Reusable tourniquets, although they may be effective, can harbor pathogens if not properly cleaned and sanitized between uses. Cloth tourniquets can also pose a risk of contamination for similar reasons, as they may not be easy to disinfect thoroughly. Rubber bands are not designed for this purpose and lack the necessary control and consistency for effective venipuncture.

In summary, disposable tourniquets are the optimal choice in a contact transmission precaution setting, as they provide a sterile and safe option for the phlebotomist.