What is the best method to prevent bleeding at a venipuncture site after needle removal?

Applying pressure to the venipuncture site after needle removal is the best method to prevent bleeding. When pressure is applied, it helps to occlude the blood vessels and promotes clotting at the puncture site. This action facilitates the formation of a stable clot, which minimizes the risk of bleeding and aids in the healing process.

Immediate pressure also helps in managing any potential oozing by encouraging blood to coagulate and stay within the damaged area. It's important to maintain this pressure for a sufficient duration—usually several minutes—to ensure adequate hemostasis.

While applying a bandage is useful for protecting the site or keeping it clean after pressure has been applied, doing so immediately doesn't address the bleeding actively. Keeping the arm raised or using ice to reduce swelling may provide some benefit in specific scenarios but do not directly contribute to controlling bleeding as effectively as applying pressure does. Hence, applying pressure is crucial for managing the situation immediately following venipuncture.