PhlebotomyQuestion 62 of 100
When performing a capillary (heel) puncture on an infant, which area of the heel should be used?
a.The center of the heel
b.The medial or lateral (side) plantar surface of the heel
c.The back curve of the heel
d.The arch of the foot
Explanation
Infant heel sticks are performed on the medial or lateral plantar (bottom) surface of the heel to avoid the bone, which lies close to the surface at the center and back of the heel. Puncturing over the bone can cause injury or infection. The puncture depth is also limited to protect the calcaneus.
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