What guideline should a nurse follow when performing an allergy skin test?

When performing an allergy skin test, the guideline to withdraw the needle at the same angle at which it was inserted is important for ensuring patient safety and comfort. This technique minimizes tissue damage and helps maintain the integrity of the skin. By withdrawing the needle straight out, the nurse helps reduce the risk of further irritation or bleeding at the site.

Using a sharp angle for needle insertion, as suggested in one of the other choices, could lead to unnecessary pain or injury to the underlying tissues. Additionally, rubbing the site after withdrawing the needle can increase irritation and may compromise the test results by dispersing the allergen or causing inflammation. Applying prolonged pressure to the site is not typically recommended after an allergy test, as it may also interfere with the results and could lead to unnecessary discomfort for the patient.

Therefore, maintaining the angle during withdrawal of the needle aligns with best practices for safety and accuracy during skin testing.