NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Clinical Patient CareMedium
A medical assistant is preparing to perform a capillary puncture on an infant for routine testing. Which of the following is the most appropriate site for this procedure?
- AThe lateral plantar surface of the heel
- BThe tip of the third finger
- CThe fleshy part of the earlobe
- DThe anterior aspect of the forearm
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The lateral plantar surface of the heel
For infants under one year of age, the lateral or medial plantar surface of the heel is the recommended site for capillary puncture due to its adequate tissue depth and reduced risk of bone injury.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Finger sticks are generally not recommended for infants under 1 year due to the risk of bone injury.
- C. Earlobe punctures are not a standard or recommended site for routine capillary collection in infants.
- D. The forearm is not an appropriate site for capillary puncture in infants; it is typically used for venipuncture in older children or adults.
Infant Capillary Puncture Site
The recommended anatomical location for obtaining capillary blood samples from infants.
- Heel stick for infants.
- Lateral or medial plantar surface.
- Avoid bone injury.
Memory trick: Capillary Cues: Care for Tiny Toes, Fingers for Grown-ups.