NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineHard
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to perform a dermal puncture on an infant for a bilirubin test. Which of the following warming techniques is most appropriate for the puncture site?
- ARubbing the heel vigorously with an alcohol pad.
- BPlacing the infant's foot under a warm running faucet.
- CUsing a heating pad set to its highest temperature for 1 minute.
- DApplying a warm, moist towel for 3 to 5 minutes.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Applying a warm, moist towel for 3 to 5 minutes.
Warming the puncture site for 3 to 5 minutes with a warm, moist towel (not exceeding 42°C or 108°F) increases blood flow to the capillaries, facilitating a better specimen collection and reducing the risk of hemolysis. This is a standard and safe practice for infant heel sticks.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Vigorous rubbing with an alcohol pad can irritate the skin, cause hemolysis, and is not an effective warming method.
- B. Placing an infant's foot under a running faucet is difficult to control temperature and can lead to thermal injury or infection.
- C. A heating pad, especially at its highest setting, can cause severe burns to an infant's delicate skin.
Infant Heel Warming Technique
The safe and effective method used to increase blood flow to an infant's heel prior to a dermal puncture for specimen collection.
- Increases capillary blood flow.
- Helps prevent hemolysis.
- Temperature must be carefully controlled.
Memory trick: Warm towel on heel, makes blood flow real.