Capillary blood sampling from the neonatal heel.
Indications
- • Newborn screening
- • Bilirubin
- • Glucose
Contraindications
- ⚠ Local infection
- ⚠ Poor perfusion
Equipment
- • Automated lancet
- • Warmer / warm cloth
- • Capillary tube
Positioning
- • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.
Consent
- • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
- • Explain risks & complications
- • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
- • Document consent
Universal precautions
- • Hand hygiene
- • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
- • Aseptic technique
- • Sharps safety
- • Verify patient identity & site
Step-by-step (0/5)
Tap to complete
3–5 min pre-warming.
Immediate complications
- ⚠ Bruising
- ⚠ Pain
Delayed complications
- • Cellulitis, osteomyelitis (rare)
Prevention
- • Correct site
- • Automated lancet
Post-procedure observation
- • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly
Monitoring
- • Site inspection
- • Symptom review
Documentation
- • Procedure note
- • Consent
- • Findings
Patient instructions
- • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms
Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.
