Which anatomical landmark is used for whole blood collection?

The finger pad is the correct anatomical landmark for whole blood collection, particularly when performing capillary blood sampling. This technique is often used in point-of-care testing because it allows for an easy and quick collection of a small blood volume without requiring venipuncture. The finger pad has a rich supply of capillaries, making it an ideal site for obtaining blood samples quickly and efficiently.

Using the finger pad also minimizes patient discomfort and is a preferred method in situations where only a small sample is required, such as glucose monitoring and other rapid tests that are often performed outside of a traditional lab setting. This method supports the convenience and speed that are hallmarks of point-of-care testing, allowing for immediate results that can inform timely clinical decisions.

While other options like the wrist, elbow, or forehead could theoretically be used for blood collection in some contexts, they are not typically preferred for whole blood collection in point-of-care settings. The wrist and elbow are associated with deeper veins, making access more complicated and potentially more painful, while the forehead is not a practical site for whole blood sampling due to a lack of suitable venous or capillary access.