Clinical Medical Assistant Exam Practice Question

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When drawing blood cultures, Povidone-iodine is preferred due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and ability to reduce skin flora effectively, minimizing contamination risk.

70% isopropyl alcohol (A) is effective but may not provide the same level of microbial kill as povidone-iodine. Soap and water (C) are not suitable for antisepsis in this context, as they do not have the same antimicrobial efficacy. Chlorhexidine (D) is also a strong antiseptic, but it may not be as effective as povidone-iodine for blood culture procedures, particularly in certain patient populations.