Figure 2. A) Patient position during fine-needle aspiration (FNA). A supine position and a pillow under the patient’s shoulder allow hyperextension of the neck and maximal exposure. B) Syringe is placed in syringe holder. C) The nodule is identified and stabilized with operator’s the nonaspirating hand. The operator stands on the side of the patient opposite that of the thyroid nodule. Current Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations require the use of gloves because of concern about bloodborne diseases. D) With a quick motion, the needle passes through the skin and enters the nodule. Immediate mild suction follows. As soon as aspirate appears, suction is released and the needle is withdrawn.