Which is the first step in performing the Seldinger technique for arterial access?

• A. Clean skin
• B. Apply local anesthesia
• C. Insert needle toward the vessel under guidance
• D. Confirm arterial entry by a flash of blood

Answer: (A)

Cleaning the skin first is essential because establishing a sterile field reduces infection risk before any puncture is made. In the Seldinger technique, you start with antiseptic skin prep and draping, then you typically give local anesthesia, followed by inserting the needle toward the vessel under guidance. A flash of blood confirms arterial entry, but that moment comes after preparation and access attempts, not at the very beginning. So the first step is to clean the skin.