Which is a critical precaution during heel blood collection?

During heel blood collection, ensuring the correct depth of puncture is crucial to prevent damage to the underlying structures, such as nerves and bones. This technique is particularly important in infants, as their skin and tissues are delicate. A properly performed heel puncture can access capillary blood without compromising the integrity of the foot. This precaution helps avoid complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, or even injury to deeper tissues, which can occur if the puncture is too deep.

Although using a sharp lancet may facilitate easier penetration of the skin, it is more important to control the depth to avoid injury. Collecting blood immediately after birth might be relevant for certain tests, but the timing does not address the technical aspects of the collection itself. Applying pressure with cotton balls is more related to post-collection handling rather than the technique of taking the blood sample. Therefore, the focus on the correct depth of the heel puncture underscores the need for careful and precise technique in this procedure.