What is the recommended cuff pressure to use as a tourniquet during venipuncture?

• A. 60 mmHg
• B. 40 mmHg
• C. 70 mmHg
• D. 50 mmHg

Answer: (A)

The key idea is to apply just enough tourniquet pressure to stop venous outflow and make veins easier to see and palpate, but not so much that arterial flow is blocked or tissue is damaged. About 60 mmHg hits that sweet spot: it is high enough to cause venous pooling and vein distension for easier venipuncture, yet well below normal arterial systolic pressure, so arteries keep flowing and the patient isn’t subjected to excessive pressure. If the pressure were much lower, veins may not distend well and puncture becomes harder. If it’s higher, arterial flow can be impaired and patient discomfort or tissue risk increases.