4 Neonatal Specimen Collection Free Online FlashCards

When is venipuncture often preferred for a term neonate?

Venipuncture is often preferred for term neonates when an experienced collector is available, especially when more blood or several tests are needed.

Where should a neonatal heel stick be performed?

Use the medial or lateral plantar surface of the heel, within the designated safe areas.

What is the usual first-drop procedure for laboratory microcollection?

For laboratory microcollection, wipe away the first drop unless the test or point-of-care device instructions say otherwise, then let a fresh drop form.

What is a commonly recommended order for multiple capillary specimens?

A commonly recommended order is blood gases, EDTA, other additive tubes, then specimens without additives. Confirm the laboratory’s required order.

What collection method should be used for point-of-care glucose testing?

Follow the meter’s instructions for sample collection and for whether to use or discard the first drop. Do not substitute a screening-card or microcontainer procedure.

What measures can reduce neonatal pain and distress during collection?

Coordinate tests when appropriate, prepare supplies, and use a trained collector. When feasible, use breastfeeding, skin-to-skin care, non-nutritive sucking, swaddling, or facilitated tucking; protocol-guided oral sucrose may also be used.

What should be checked before using capillary blood for a test?

Heel-stick collection is useful when only a small volume is needed, but capillary blood is not suitable for every test and may differ from venous blood. Confirm acceptability with the laboratory.

What should happen if heel-stick collection fails or the volume needed is too large?

Stop repeated attempts and seek a suitable alternative under local policy.

Which heel-stick sites should be avoided?

Avoid the center and posterior curvature of the heel, as well as sites with bruising, swelling, infection, or recent punctures.

How should lancet depth be selected for a newborn?

Choose a neonatal safety lancet with a depth appropriate for the infant’s size and the device instructions; one depth is not suitable for every newborn.

How should pressure be applied when collecting heel-stick blood?

Use gentle, intermittent pressure only. Do not scrape, milk, or squeeze hard, because this may cause hemolysis, bruising, or tissue-fluid contamination.

Why must microcollection devices be filled to the required volume?

Choose the device for the ordered test and fill it to the manufacturer’s required volume. Underfilling or overfilling additive tubes can affect the blood-to-additive ratio and test results.