Finger / Heel Prick

I have observed both the finger prick and heel prick procedure. Heel pricks are usually done on premature babies. The blood taken from both the finger and heel pricks are used to perform the full blood count (FBC) test. In addition for premature babies, the reticulocyte count test may also be requested.

The lancet or needle used for the pricking is different to those we used during one of the haemotology practical session in school. The lancet used in this company has a round base and can be positioned in any way. In contrast the lancet we used in school has a rectangular base and the lancet must not be positioned parallel to the fingerprints.

There are several points that should be noted when performing the pricking procedure:
1) Gloves should be put on before pricking procedure
2) the gloves should be changed after pricking each patient. This is to reduce contamination.
3) Wipe finger or heel with alcohol swab first and allow the alcohol to evaporate before pricking.
4) Wipe the first drop of blood with a gauze before collecting subsequent drops.
5) When 'squeezing or milking' for blood, press the fingers and let go, before pressing again.