Dermal punctures performed on an infant are routinely collected from which location?

Rationale

Dermal punctures performed on an infant are routinely collected from the lateral plantar surface.

Dermal punctures, commonly known as heel sticks, are a standard method for obtaining blood samples from infants due to the rich capillary network present in the heel, making it a preferred site for minimally invasive blood collection in pediatric patients.

A (Lateral plantar surface) CORRECT

The lateral plantar surface, specifically the heel, is the primary location for dermal punctures in infants. This area offers easy accessibility, minimal discomfort, and a higher success rate for obtaining an adequate blood sample for testing purposes. The abundance of capillaries in the infant's heel makes it an ideal site for these procedures.

B (Lateral surface of the index finger) YOUR ANSWER

The lateral surface of the index finger is not the recommended site for dermal punctures in infants. While finger sticks are commonly used in adults for blood glucose monitoring, the heel is preferred in infants due to its capillary-rich nature and minimal discomfort during sample collection.

C (Medial surface of the thumb) YOUR ANSWER

The medial surface of the thumb is not typically used for dermal punctures in infants. While thumb sticks may be employed in certain situations, such as in older children or adults, the heel remains the standard site for dermal punctures in infants due to its practical advantages.

D (Medial antecubital fossa) YOUR ANSWER

The medial antecubital fossa, located in the inner elbow region, is not a suitable site for dermal punctures in infants. This area is commonly used for venipuncture procedures in older children and adults but is not recommended for heel sticks in infants due to the accessibility and comfort provided by the heel site.

Conclusion

In infant care, dermal punctures are routinely performed on the lateral plantar surface, specifically the heel, to obtain blood samples for various diagnostic tests. This location is preferred for its ease of access, high capillary density, and minimal discomfort during the collection process, making it the standard practice for blood sampling in pediatric patients.

Dermal punctures performed on an infant are routinely collected from which location?

Dermal punctures performed on an infant are routinely collected from the lateral plantar surface.

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