Will Using a Used Cotton Swab to Press the Needle Hole After Blood Drawing at the Hospital Transmit Viruses?

Question

When a child gets blood tested at the hospital, the doctor uses a cotton swab soaked in iodine alcohol to clean the area where the blood is drawn, and then presses the needle hole with a used cotton swab when removing the needle. Can this method transmit viruses?

Answer

When a child gets blood tested at the hospital, the doctor uses a cotton swab soaked in iodine alcohol to clean the area where the blood is drawn, and then presses the needle hole with a used cotton swab when removing the needle. This is an irregular practice, but if you use your own used cotton swab to press the needle hole, it will absolutely not cause viral infection. There’s no need for you to worry. If you encounter any issues, please contact your local hospital promptly.