Section 22 - Fingerstick/Heel Stick

Question 1

What are two reasons a phlebotomist may resort to a finger stick?

Answer 1

-can’t find a vein
-patient has burns, scars, non-intact skin
-severely obese and can’t find vein
-physician wants small amount of blood
-save vein integrity for other procedures

Question 2

Does the phlebotomist use a tourniquet for a dermal stick?

Answer 2

NO

Question 3

Why should the phlebotomist avoid wiping away the first drop of blood with an alcohol pad?

Answer 3

The alcohol can HEMOLYZE the blood specimen and keep a round droplet of blood from forming

Question 4

When is the heel used for a dermal puncture?

Answer 4

For infants less than 1-2 years of age

Question 5

TRUE OR FALSE: 2.0 mm lancets should be used for heel sticks on preemies.

Answer 5

FALSE: Heel punctures for preemies 0.85 mm

Question 6

What is the recommended area for a heel stick?

Answer 6

The middle of the great toe to the heel and laterally from the middle of the fourth and fifth toes to the heel

Question 7

TRUE OR FALSE: It is not appropriate to use the arch of the foot for the heel stick.

Answer 7

TRUE

Question 8

What is a common test preformed on infants via heel stick?

Answer 8

Bilirubin

Question 9

What is the most common treatment for jaundice?

Answer 9

Phototherapy or “light” therapy

Question 10

Is it possible for bilirubin to reach toxic levels?

Answer 10

Yes, causing permanent brain damage or death