NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineMedium
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to perform a dermal puncture on an infant for a newborn screening test. Which of the following areas of the foot is the appropriate site for this procedure?
- AThe lateral or medial aspects of the plantar surface of the heel
- BThe central plantar surface of the heel
- CThe arch of the foot
- DThe anterior curve of the heel
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The lateral or medial aspects of the plantar surface of the heel
The lateral or medial aspects of the plantar surface of the heel are the safest sites for infant heel sticks, as they avoid major nerves, arteries, and bone, reducing the risk of osteomyelitis or nerve damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The central plantar surface of the heel is too close to the calcaneus (heel bone), risking osteomyelitis.
- C. The arch of the foot contains major nerves and tendons and is not a safe site for puncture.
- D. The anterior curve of the heel is too close to the calcaneus and can also contain nerves and arteries.
Infant Heel Puncture Site
For infant dermal punctures, the safest and most appropriate site is the lateral or medial aspects of the plantar surface of the heel.
- Avoids injury to bone (calcaneus) and nerves.
- Puncture depth should not exceed 2.0 mm.
- Warm the heel prior to puncture to increase blood flow.
Memory trick: Infant heel: Sides are safe, middle means danger!