What is the purpose of applying lidocaine after cleaning the site?

The purpose of applying lidocaine after cleaning the site is to provide pain relief. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it is applied. This helps alleviate discomfort that may occur during procedures such as venipuncture or other invasive techniques. By reducing pain at the site, lidocaine improves the overall experience for the patient, making it more tolerable.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of lidocaine. Disinfecting the area is typically accomplished through the use of antiseptic solutions, not lidocaine. Enhancing blood flow is not a characteristic associated with lidocaine; rather, it is primarily used for its numbing properties. While preventing infection is crucial in any procedural context, this is generally achieved through proper cleaning and disinfection techniques rather than through the application of an anesthetic.