What is the maximum depth for a lancet used during heel punctures to prevent damage?

During heel punctures, it is critical to use a lancet that penetrates to a safe depth to minimize the risk of damage to underlying tissues and structures. The maximum recommended depth for a lancet during these procedures is 2mm.

This depth is sufficient to access the capillary blood supply needed for blood testing, particularly in newborns and infants, while minimizing the potential for harm to the heel bone or nerves, which lie deeper than this threshold. Using a lancet that exceeds this depth could lead to complications, such as osteomyelitis or other injuries to the delicate anatomy of a baby’s heel. Thus, adhering to a maximum depth of 2mm in heel punctures balances the need for adequate blood volume with patient safety.